SONI To Improve Electricity Supply In Carrickfergus And Newtownabbey

The Electricity System Operator for Northern Ireland (SONI) has announced that it is set to improve the security of the supply in the Carrickfergus and the greater Newtownabbey area.

The overhead power line stretching from Eden (near Carrickfergus) to Carnmoney is over 80 years old. Over the years, significant housing development has occurred, rendering it impractical to renovate the entire line.

In response, SONI intends to improve select sections of the overhead line. The implementation of underground cabling will allow for the de-energisation and eventual removal of other portions of the line. This initiative called the Eden-Carnmoney project, aims to improve the security of power supply in both Carrickfergus and the broader Newtownabbey regions for the foreseeable future.


Before making changes to the grid, SONI will work with people who might be affected. The system operator has met with officials and representatives, and has planned public events in Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey in March.

In addition to managing the Grid in real time, SONI's expert engineers are responsible for planning ahead to ensure the energy infrastructure meets the needs of the future. SONI is working to upgrade its power system to support the delivery of the NI Energy Strategy, all while ensuring the security of supply for homes, businesses, and farms across Northern Ireland in the present.

Eimear Watson, Head of Networks NI (SONI), said:

"At SONI we are focused on investing in and improving the transmission grid, so that everyone has access to the power they need, when they need it. The Eden-Carnmoney reinforcement project is a major part of our improvement and investment works and we are pleased to be bringing forward our proposals for the local community, businesses, and key stakeholders to have their say.

"Collaboration is key to the process and through this stage of consultation we want to provide the local community with as much information as possible for them to submit feedback on these proposals before the consultation closes on Friday 10th May at 17:00."