The Shannon Scheme
The first major project undertaken by the newly formed Free State, the Shannon Scheme was pivotal in the foundation of ESB in 1927.
What was the Shannon Scheme?
The Shannon Scheme was a groundbreaking hydroelectric project that marked the beginning of large-scale electrification in Ireland. Initiated in 1925 and completed in 1929, it was centered at Ardnacrusha in County Clare and harnessed the power of the River Shannon to generate electricity.
Key facts
-
£5.1 million
The scheme's budget
A budget of £5.1 million was allocated to the project, which was 20% of Ireland’s revenue for that time.
-
5,000 workers
On site at Ardnacrusha
4,000 Irish and 1,000 German men worked and lived on-site at Ardnacrusha, Co Clare.
-
1927
ESB Established
The Shannon Scheme’s huge success led to the establishment of the Electricity Supply Board in 1927.
Key figures
Dr Thomas McLaughlin
First Managing Director of the Electricity Supply Board (1896-1971).
Patrick McGillian TD
McGillian exerted his influence to steer supporting legislation through the Dáil in support of the Shannon Scheme.
WT Cosgrave TD
Following the establishment of the Irish Free State, Cosgrave was elected president of the Executive Council.
Prof Frank Sherman Rishworth
Frank Rishworth rose from a distinguished academic and engineer to become chief engineer of the Shannon Scheme, helping to deliver one of the most transformative infrastructure projects in Irish history.
Harald Wallem
Harald Wallem played a key role in securing the agreements and operational arrangements that helped turn the ambitious Shannon Scheme project into a reality.
Otto Uitting
Otto Uitting was a leading Siemens engineer who made a major contribution to the design of the Shannon Scheme. Posted to Ireland in 1925, he worked closely with Thomas McLaughlin on the landmark project.
Photo gallery
How it worked
Original footage
In April 1928, ESB’s public relations department entered into an agreement with the First National Pathé Film Company to film the construction of the Shannon Scheme.
The film was shot over a period of months between summer and winter 1928, and was premiered by the Pathé Film Company in the Pathé Gazette, as well as in sixty principal theatres in Dublin and nationwide.
View footage of the schemePublishing
One of the first things that ESB did after it was established was to create a public relations team. This team was responsible for promoting the Shannon Scheme and selling electricity to the nation.
