The Distribution Network is the medium and low voltage electricity network used to deliver electricity to connection points such as houses, offices, shops, and street lights.
The development, maintenance and operation of the distribution network is carried out by two licensable activities-that of Distribution Asset Owner ( DAO-ESB) and Distribution System Operator (ESB Networks Ltd). The Distribution System Operator is responsible for building, maintaining and operating all of the distribution level network infrastructure including all overhead electricity lines, poles and underground cables used to bring power to Ireland's customers.
Distribution tariffs are the charges paid for using the distribution system. These charges are ultimately passed onto customers-the CER directs and carries out annual reviews of the charges. Furthermore, in order to ensure that only equitable levels costs are collected through these tariffs, the CER also carries out reviews of ESB's costs incurred in developing, maintaining and operating the distribution system.