ESB Networks has apologised to customers in Bettystown, Laytown and Mornington following a series of power outages which have prompted growing frustration among residents and businesses.
East Meath residents have been calling for answers over repeated interruptions to their electricity supply, with some claiming they have experienced at least six or seven power cuts so far this year.
Frustration boiled over following another outage at the weekend, with one resident saying it was the second time electricity supplies had been interrupted in the space of a week.
Residents have raised concerns about the impact of the repeated outages on families, vulnerable people, businesses and those living in newer homes which are heavily reliant on electricity for cooking and heating.
One parent described trying to feed a child during an hours-long outage as a “nightmare”, saying the family had come close to leaving their home to stay with relatives.
Others reported problems with internet, mobile data and phone coverage during outages, adding to the difficulties faced by people working from home or trying to access information about when electricity would be restored.
The impact has also been felt by local businesses.
The Village Hotel in Bettystown highlighted the difficulties caused by the latest outage, saying businesses can be forced to stop trading, close their doors, cancel bookings and lose valuable income when electricity supplies are interrupted.
“Another day without ESB, and another day of local businesses doing their best to keep going,” the hotel said.
“When the power goes, businesses can be forced to stop trading, close their doors, cancel bookings, and lose valuable income. The impact is felt right across our local community.”
In a statement to the Drogheda Independent, ESB Networks acknowledged the concerns of customers in the area and apologised for the disruption.
“ESB Networks acknowledges the concerns of customers in the Bettystown, Laytown and Mornington area following a number of recent unplanned power outages,” a spokesperson said.
“We understand the disruption that such interruptions can cause for homes, farms and businesses, and we sincerely apologise for the inconvenience experienced.”
ESB Networks said the recent outages resulted from “a number of separate and unrelated faults” across both the overhead and underground electricity network.
The company also confirmed that it is continuing to invest in the electricity network serving the wider Drogheda area, including major works currently taking place in Julianstown.
According to ESB Networks, the works will enhance network capacity, resilience and security of supply.
“The current programme of works is expected to be completed later this month and will help strengthen the local network to better serve homes, farms, businesses and communities across the area,” the spokesperson said.
“We would like to thank customers for their patience while these important upgrades are being completed.”
Cllr Carol Lennon said she had raised the issue with Meath County Council but was informed that the local authority has no role in electricity infrastructure.
“I spent much of today assisting households experiencing difficulties as a result of the outage,” she said. over the weekend.
Long-term residents have also claimed power cuts have affected the area for many years, with concerns about the reliability of the electricity supply as the area heads towards the winter months.
ESB Networks thanked customers for their patience while the ongoing network upgrades are completed.