What was the Irish hydroelectric power scheme?

In 1925, just three years after the establishment of the Irish Free State, the Irish government embarked on a project that would absorb 2o percent of the national budget for years. This project was known as the hydroelectric power scheme on the River Shannon.

When was a hydro power station built in Ireland?

The hydro-electric power station at Ardnacrusha on the River Shannon, 6 km N of Limerick, was built in 1925-9 at the same time as the national grid in Ireland. It was the policy of what was then the Free State to make Ireland independent of Britis...

Where is Ardnacrusha power plant located?

Its product, the Ardnacrusha power plant, is a hydroelectric power station located near Ardnacrusha within County Clare approximately 2.4 kilometres (1.5 mi) from the Limerick border. It is Ireland 's largest river hydroelectric scheme and is operated on a purpose built headrace connected to the River Shannon.

What is Ireland's largest river hydroelectric scheme?

It is Ireland 's largest river hydroelectric scheme and is operated on a purpose built headrace connected to the River Shannon. The plant includes fish ladders so that returning fish, such as salmon, can climb the river safely past the power station.

How did Ardnacrusha get its electricity?

The waters of the River Shannon were harnessed at the Ardnacrusha dam. Then, workers on the project built a network to electricity across the country from the new power station. In tandem, the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) was also set up in 1927 as the first of Ireland’s semi-state bodies and it has managed Ardnacrusha since its opening in 1929.

Who built a power plant in Ireland?

The plant was constructed by the German company Siemens-Schuckert but was designed by Irish engineer Thomas McLaughlan. During construction, over 5,000 workers, many of them Germans, were involved in working on the plant. During this time, Ireland had minimal provisions, and thus, a rather small demand for electricity.