A new electricity infrastructure project in the west of Ireland could see the creation of 300 construction jobs.
The Grid West Project could also open up possibilities for Ireland to export green energy abroad.
Eirgrid is proposing to build new transmission lines linking Bellacorick in Co Mayo to both Casla in Co Galway and Flagfort in Co Roscommon.
The project was launched by Taoiseach Enda Kenny this afternoon.
It will link up the west's renewable energy providers with the National Grid.
Consultation on project is now starting with landowners.
Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Pat Rabbitte described the investment as a "good news story".
Mr Rabbitte said that it will secure Ireland's renewable energy supply and facilitate green energy exports.
He said: "More and more we are coming to rely on renewables.
"That's very important in terms of our energy generation and it’s very important in terms of maximising the value to the country of our wind resources in particular."
EirGrid Chief Executive Dermot Byrne made reference to Grid25 - EirGrid's plan to develop and upgrade the electricity transmission network from now until 2025.
"This major initiative will put in place a safe, secure and affordable electricity supply throughout Ireland," Mr Byrne said.
"It is a major undertaking which will take several years and represents an investment of €3.2bn."
