ESB’s Ardnacrusha Power Station is to once again open the gates of Ireland’s first national hydro-electric station to the general public for the 2024 summer season, providing a unique visitor experience in Co Clare.
The guided public tours are free and will run from 1 July to 6 September 2024, Monday to Friday. Each tour runs for approximately 90 minutes, accommodating groups of up to 30 people. This phase of public tours follows school tours that have seen hundreds of students pass through the gates since May.
Visitors will begin their tour at the visitors’ centre before going out on site to view the impressive headrace canal, locks and tailrace. Once inside the power station, the living heritage of the Shannon Scheme is brought to life through a series of animations which celebrate the history and impact of this iconic project. Visitors are given access to the very heart of the station with unique views of the turbine hall and a visit to the original control room.
Brendan Shine, Plant Manager at Ardnacrusha said: “The Ardnacrusha Experience tells the story of the critical role that the Shannon Scheme has had in enhancing Irish life, paving the way for the social, economic, and industrial development of Ireland, making progress possible through the electrification of the country.
Visitors will get the chance to learn not just about the history of the station but also our Net Zero by 2040 strategy. Drawing inspiration from the development of Ardnacrusha almost 100 years ago, ESB is committed to a future powered by clean electricity. We are looking forward to welcoming all those with an interest in engineering, history and heritage for pre-booked visits over the summer.”
For more information, bookings and for accessibility details, please click here.
Check out this episode of Clare FM’s Atlantic Tales to find out more about ESB Ardnacrusha.
