Major electricity blackouts are usually the result of a number of contingencies. These contingencies include generation shortages, transmission network failures or other operational difficulties. While no electricity power system can be fully protected from such events I am satisfied that measures are in place to reduce the risk of a major blackout occurring on the Irish power system.
In the event of an emergency situation, the transmission system operator, as part of its licence conditions, has in place a number of specific emergency plans which can deal with the incident quickly and effectively. Procedures for activation and implementation of the plans, as well as communication procedures, are tested and reviewed at regular intervals.
The plans include a power system restoration plan, the objective of which is to restore a continuous supply of electricity, as quickly and as safely as possible in the event of a total system blackout. Implementation of the plan is at the discretion and under the control of the transmission system operator.