As well as launching the scheme, Bord Gais has outlined the first phase of the project’s construction program, which will see work commence in Castlebar and Westport in July 2007. The firm expects to have the first gas in Castlebar by December 2007 and in Westport by March 2008.
Bord Gais said that, following these connections, others will be rolled out during the following months. Work in Headford and Craughwell in County Galway will commence in August 2007, with gas scheduled to be available to these towns in 2008.
According to Bord Gais, the remaining seven towns of Athenry and Tuam in County Galway and Ballina, Ballyhaunis, Claremorris, Crossmolina and Knock in County Mayo are subject to tender and local authority agreement, but are expected to receive gas during 2008 and 2009.
Mark Holohan, connection sales manager, said: Natural gas is the fuel of choice for 575,000 homes and businesses throughout the country. For the first time, residents and businesses in these 11 towns can also avail of this competitively-priced, clean, convenient fuel.
Bord Gais Networks is responsible for connecting all gas customers to the pipeline and connection advisors will be available in all towns to advise people on the methods of converting to natural gas, Mr Holohan added.
Bord Gais obtained approval from the Commission for Energy Regulation to connect the 11 regions in 2006. This was after a study evaluating the viability of connecting towns along the route of the Mayo-Galway gas transmission pipeline.
