Update on Phase 1 of Natural Gas to Wexford Project

Gas Networks Ireland builds, develops and operates Ireland’s world-class gas infrastructure.  We are responsible for connecting all new gas customers to the network, and for work on service pipes and meters at customers’ premises, on behalf of all gas suppliers in Ireland.

Natural gas is available in over 160 population centres in 20 counties and there are almost 674,000 users in Ireland.  Safety and a strong customer focus are at the heart of how our business operates.  In Ireland, Gas Networks Ireland runs the natural gas transmission system, linked to the UK and Europe through two interconnector pipelines with Scotland, providing access to its 13,832km network of pipeline.

A €25m plan to bring gas to Wexford town and in parallel, deliver enhanced water services, began in autumn 2015.  The Wexford Town Gas and Water Project will be delivered jointly by Gas Networks Ireland and Irish Water on behalf of Ervia, an approach which allows for gas and water infrastructure works to be completed together, thereby reducing costs and minimising disruption to local businesses and residents.   Phase 1 of the Gas to Wexford project saw a 40km Feeder Main gas pipeline constructed from Campile, Great Island to Wexford town with connections supplied to a number of contracted large customers.

Connected customers so far have been located primarily along the Rosslare Road, where natural gas is available now to businesses and homes that want to save money and connect to our network.

The current section (as of January 2017) of pipe laying works coming into Wexford from the N25 is running past The Whitford Hotel, through Whitemill Industrial Estate, Clonard Road, Beechlawn and Newlands.

From there the pipe will continue on to Wexford General Hospital, turning down Newtown Road, along Hill Street and Upper John Street, as far as Mary Street, with a branch off to Cornmarket. This part of phase one works is due for completion during the first half of 2017 with commercial and residential property owners along this route looking forward to having lower fuel costs from summer onwards.

The investment in this project by Gas Networks Ireland and Irish Water will provide a major boost to the Wexford economy that will be enduring.  From this point, businesses, farms and homes can begin the switch to Natural Gas, benefiting from savings in energy costs of up to 60%.  From business and industry to farm and residential, natural gas can be used for a wide range of applications, from heating and hot water, to catering and cooking, to air-conditioning and electricity generation (combined heat and power). Natural Gas offers significant advantages over other fuel sources in terms of both cost and environmental impact. Its flexibility is particularly popular with industrial users.

To connect your home or business to the natural gas network, contact businesslink at 1850 411 511 and we will be delighted to assist you. Alternatively, you can contact us by email on businesslink@gasnetworks i.e. or visit our website www.gasnetworks.ie

Gas Networks Ireland is part of Ervia, a commercial semi-state company responsible for gas and water infrastructure and services and the delivery of wholesale broadband solutions in Ireland.