Transport | Alternative energy usage for extended North Co. Kildare rail lines

To ask the Minister for Transport if it is expected that the electrification of the Maynooth line and any other commuter lines in north County Kildare will not be impeded by issues such as lack of alternative energy sources; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

REPLY
The NTA does not envisage that the electrification of the Maynooth line and any other commuter lines in north County Kildare will be impeded a lack of alternative energy sources. Appropriate engagement has taken place to ensure sufficient power supply to operate the enlarged DART system following the implementation of the DART+ Programme.

The DART+ West Railway Order application submitted to An Bord Pleanála in July of this year included elements of the electricity supply works necessary to provide power to the project. Similar provision will also be included in the DART+ South West Railway Order application which will submitted to An Bord Pleanála in the coming months.