Storm Éowyn brought extensive damage to electricity infrastructure resulting in 768,000 customers losing supply on January 24, with 330,000 still without power now.
Following what was described as “unprecedented damage”, ESB Networks said that this was by far the worst storm experienced in terms of customers losing supply and the scale of damage across the network.
ESB Networks has restored supply to 438,000 homes so far, and expected restoration times have been uploaded to its PowerCheck website.
The majority of customers will have power restored by January 31, however it is expected that approximately 100,000 customers will progressively have their supply restored over the course of the following week after that.
Crews have continued to work in difficult conditions through Storm Herminia today (Sunday, January 26). The storm has not caused significant damage but is hampering power restoration efforts in places.
The ESB is engaged with utilities across Europe and support will arrive from Great Britain in coming days.
In addition, ESB Networks crews from the south of the country and Co. Dublin are being deployed across worse impacted areas, while skilled retirees from ESB Networks are also being redrafted to help.
The ESB had advised customers to sign up for the “Keep me Notified” service for power outages. The network is also been made aware of scam text messages purporting to come from ESB, and is asking customers to not engage directly.
In a statement, the ESB said: “We acknowledge the disruption to family and commercial life this causes and thank customers across the country who remain without power for their patience as our crews work to safely restore power.”
The ESB has once again warned the public not to approach fallen wires or damaged electricity network, and to report any damage to electricity infrastructure by calling 1800 372 999.
It also advised that any impacted customers who use electrically powered medical devices contact their healthcare professional to make alternative arrangements if necessary.