Dublin: Friday, 6th February 2026
Storms Kristin and Leonardo have brought extensive and severe damage across Portugal and left over one million customers without electricity. ESB Networks has deployed crews to Portugal to support E-REDES, the Portuguese Distribution System Operator, in restoring electricity supply and repairing infrastructure.
ESB Networks will be supported by teams from our contracting partners, including Conals and Gaeltec Utilities who have longstanding roots in Portugal. Together, the combined teams bring extensive experience in major restoration operations and specialist capability to support the repair works required on the ground.
The first convoy of personnel and specialist vehicles departed from Rosslare Port yesterday evening, with more teams departing tonight. These personnel will work alongside local Portuguese teams to repair the severely impacted overhead line network.
ESB Networks has a long and proud tradition of providing mutual support to neighbouring electricity network operators across Europe and the UK during major incidents, including recently where international crews travelled to Ireland to support ESB Networks during Storm Éowyn. This collaboration has become increasingly important as climate driven extreme weather events continue to increase in frequency and severity across all regions.