ESB’s Ardnacrusha Power Station re-opens for free tours to the public this summer

ESB is once again running guided tours at the Ardnacrusha Power Station in County Clare this summer, offering the public a rare opportunity to explore one of Ireland’s most significant engineering landmarks completely free of charge. 

School group tours will take place from Thursday, May 22 to June 30, with public tours beginning on July 1 through to September 5, on weekdays only.

Each tour provides a fun, engaging and informative experience, tracing the story of electricity in Ireland from the station’s origins in the 1920s to ESB’s modern-day commitment to renewable energy and reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2040. 

Brendan Shine, Plant Manager at Ardnacrusha, said, “All the staff working here at Ardnacrusha are delighted to once again open the gates of the station to school groups and the public so they can get an insight into the workings of our great station, and the contribution it has made to the country’s economic and social history. Our guides will ensure this is a memorable experience for all and we encourage anyone interested to book early.” 

Visitors on the 90-minute guided tour will learn how Ardnacrusha revolutionised life in Ireland and continues to play a vital role in ESB’s sustainability strategy. Participants will also gain insight into some of the cutting-edge renewable energy technologies being adopted by the organisation. 

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Commissioned in 1929, Ardnacrusha was the centrepiece of the Shannon hydro-electric scheme—a visionary project that symbolised Irish independence and industrial ambition. Constructed by 5,000 workers over four years, the scheme cost over £5 million, the equivalent of 20% of Ireland’s GDP at the time.

With an initial capacity of 86 megawatts, it was enough to power the entire country. Today, Ardnacrusha remains operational, contributing around 2% of Ireland’s total electricity supply. 

The visitor feedback speaks for itself, with one person stating: "I’m a mom of three kids—14, 11 and 6—and we all found the tour incredibly interesting. We were actually disappointed when it ended—we wanted it to go on longer! The guides were very knowledgeable and answered every question with ease." 

Another commented: “A great tour. Very informative, guides are very knowledgeable on all aspects of the tour. Witty, funny, and interactive. There was a wide diverse age group on our tour and all was catered for. It starts on time, don't feel rushed throughout the tour. Highly recommend this experience.” 

Bookings are essential and can be made at www.esb.ie/ardnacrushatours, where visitors (of up to 30 people) can also find accessibility information and check available dates.