EU ‘Buy-European’ Rules May Slow Ireland’s Home-building by Hindering Grid Connections

ESB Networks, the semi-state utility responsible for connecting new Irish homes to electricity, has alerted the Department of Public Expenditure that the EU’s proposed “Made in Europe” legislation could exacerbate existing delays in grid connections. The draft Industrial Accelerator Act would require public-funded projects to source a share of materials from European manufacturers, a move championed by France to protect its auto and steel sectors.

ESB’s managing director Nicholas Tarrant warned that such “buy European” clauses could limit the company’s ability to procure essential grid components globally, driving up costs and extending build times for new housing. The firm supports the broader goal of strengthening European manufacturing but argues the rules should not constrain utility supply chains until sufficient EU capacity exists. The concerns were raised in a July 1 email obtained via a Freedom of Information request, citing a DSO Entity paper warning of high prices and limited supply under a strict interpretation of the act.