Reimagining the Story of Electricity with Augmented Reality
A Collaboration Built on Innovation and Impact
ESB Networks sought to modernise its traditional visitor experience, which relied on live trainer-led tours of complex electrical systems. The goal: to develop a digital experience that could educate more flexibly and reach wider audiences, including young people interested in apprenticeships and careers in energy.
Working closely with ESB Networks’ training specialists, the Extended Reality team at SETU’s Walton Institute designed an Augmented Reality (AR) app that blends:
- 360° video and drone footage
- Audio narration and interactive virtual elements
- 3D modelling and an animated virtual guide
The app blends cutting-edge visuals with storytelling to enhance understanding, spark curiosity and showcase the inner workings of the country’s electrical network.
“It’s an exciting new way to engage people with the story of electricity and the important work ESB Networks does every day.” The result is a rich, multimedia learning journey through Ireland’s electrical heritage and ESB’s national infrastructure. It’s an innovative way to educate, engage, and inspire—especially for school groups, apprentices, and the general public visiting ESB’s Network Training Centre in Portlaoise, County Laois. The app also acts as a recruitment tool, offering a compelling, hands-on preview of the work involved in maintaining Ireland’s energy supply.
Stephen Barnes, Senior Project Manager, XR Team, Walton Institute
Expertise That Powered the Project
SETU’s Walton Institute brought deep technical capability to this collaboration, combining:
- Extended Reality (XR) and Augmented Reality development
- 3D character rigging and animation
- 360° video capture, drone filming and editing
- Mobile app testing, validation and project management
SETU’s Professional Software Engineering Services (PSES) team also ensured robust testing and usability across platforms, while leveraging in-house expertise from the Electronic Engineering division to ensure technical accuracy and accessibility.
“This app reflects ESB Networks’ commitment to innovation and education… offering a hands-on, immersive understanding of the infrastructure that powers Ireland.”
David Harrington, Training Design and Systems Manager, ESB Networks
Early Success and Community Impact
The ESB Networks AR app launched in June 2025 during the Apprentice of the Year competition. Its early reception has been highly positive, with schools, training facilitators and potential apprentices praising the immersive, intuitive design and engaging learning format.
Looking Ahead: A Platform for Future Innovation
Building on this momentum, Walton Institute and ESB Networks plan to explore new opportunities to integrate Extended Reality into classroom learning, particularly for technical and safety training at the ESB Networks Training Centre. The app sets a strong precedent for how immersive education can support skills development, career awareness, and digital transformation in the energy sector.
This project is part-funded by the Enterprise Ireland Technology Gateway Programme, co-financed by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the ERDF Southern, Eastern & Midland Regional Programme 2021–2027.