New Augmented Reality App brings Ireland’s Electricity Story to Life

A new mobile app, ESB Networks AR: The Story of Electricity, developed by Walton Institute at South East Technological University, was recently launched during the annual ESB Networks’ Apprentice Network Technician of the Year. This innovative app offers an interactive, educational experience that brings the history and infrastructure of electricity in Ireland to life using cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) technology.

The app also allows users to explore the ESB Networks Training Centre’s live field in Portlaoise through a guided AR tour. Onsite visitors can use the app to access multimedia content, presented by a virtual tour guide, that explains the real-world electrical equipment and infrastructure they see around them.

For those accessing the app, ESB Networks AR offers a rich multimedia journey through the evolution of electricity in Ireland—from generation to transmission, distribution, and final delivery to homes and businesses across the country, both urban and rural.

The project was delivered through a research and development collaboration between the ICS Technology Gateway at Walton Institute and ESB Networks.

Stephen Barnes, Senior Project Manager of the Extended Reality (XR) team at Walton Institute, said: “We’re delighted to launch an app that combines education, storytelling, and technology. It’s an exciting new way to engage people with the story of electricity and the important work ESB Networks does every day. As a former electronic engineer, I hope that this will not just give users a better understanding of the great work done by ESB Networks but also inspire the next generation of apprentices.”

David Harrington, Training Design and Systems Manager at ESB Networks, added: “This app reflects ESB Networks commitment to innovation and education. It enhances how we engage with visitors, apprentices, and the public, offering a hands-on, immersive understanding of the infrastructure that powers Ireland.”

This app is more than a tour. It serves as an educational tool that demystifies the fundamentals of electricity and showcases the vital work of ESB Networks. Schools, training centres, and colleges can also benefit from its use as an engaging introduction to electrical systems and infrastructure.

One of the standout features is a virtual tour guide, created using advanced 3D scanning and facial animation technologies. Users can also experience immersive 360° footage from a technician’s climb up a transmission tower, offering a unique and thrilling perspective on the work carried out by ESB professionals.

The ICS Technology Gateway Programme is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021-27.