Tetra Tech provided engineering consultancy services for the uprate of the 110 kV transmission line between Bandon and Dunmanway to strengthen the regional electricity network.
Tetra Tech were contracted by our client EirGrid to obtain planning permission for the Bandon-Dunmanway 110kV Uprate Project. The project comprises of the uprate (refurbishment) of the existing 26km, 110 kV Overhead ESB Line between the existing substations in Bandon and Dunmanway, County Cork. The permitted works were designed to safeguard and enhance the energy transmission grid, thereby supporting future sustainable energy production and transmission.
Designed to meet increasing demand for renewable energy, the permitted works were designed to optimise existing infrastructure and facilitate the delivery of renewable energy in the region.
The ecological assessment of the project led to the proposed works being designed in an ecologically-sensitive manner minimising habitat loss or impacts on protected species or species of conservation concern.
Challenge
The Bandon-Dunmanway 110kV Uprate Project was located in an area with notable biodiversity, archaeology, and cultural heritage. Our client, EirGrid, worked to ensure that the project considered nearby designated sites and aimed to protect various ecological factors, including species such as otters and badgers. A heritage impact assessment was conducted to evaluate the project’s effects on local monuments, structures, and archaeological features. Addressing these aspects required a thoughtful approach to environmental and cultural considerations.
Solution
The proposed works have been carefully designed to protect the receiving environment, incorporating robust mitigation measures to address any possible adverse effects. Our solutions included:
- Comprehensive surveys: We conducted extensive desk studies and field surveys focussed on nature conservation and protected species, ensuring that significant negative impacts were identified and effectively managed
- Minimising environmental impact: We applied sound design principles and best practices outlined in the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) to minimise the impact on natural watercourses, soils, geology, and groundwater
- Heritage protection: Our CEMP ensured that recorded archaeological monuments and cultural heritage constraints were avoided, ensuring that these features were protected
At a glance
Client
EirGrid
Location
Co. Cork, Ireland
Services
Environmental services, GIS services, landowner, stakeholder and local authority engagement, planning consultancy, preparation of a construction environmental management plan (CEMP), preparation of a planning and environmental considerations report (PECR), preparation of an environmental impact assessment (EIA) screening report, project communications,
The project featured in this article was undertaken by RPS, A Tetra Tech Company and originally published on RPSgroup.com. In March 2026 RPS rebranded to Tetra Tech.