Capt Martin Donnelly, Harbourmaster of Drogheda Port, said that this upgrade was the final part of the navigational improvement and recently installed Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) package.

The introduction of solar powered aids at Drogheda Port is in line with the Drogheda Port Company policy to benefit the environment, improve navigational safety and reduce maintenance costs. The new Vega VLB-36 units will be fitted to the breakwater lights with the remaining lights using the Vega VLB 42 units. All of the installation will be carried out ‘afloat’ onto fixed beacons.

Jeff Gibson of Hydrosphere expressed the company's delight to be involved with the project and said that solarising these lights will improve their reliability whilst greatly reducing the waste produced by disposable battery packs.

The three mile Vega VLB42 unit was chosen as its high efficiency LED allowed a smaller and more cost effective solar installation than would otherwise have been possible, whilst its compact dimensions suited the elevated position of the existing lights. For the more difficult locations at the breakwater entrance, the new self contained VLB36 unit offered the required range in a compact package.

The project is supported by the European Union Structural funds, Interreg 111A programme for Ireland and Northern Ireland 2000-2006. Priority 2, Measure 1. Project ref No. 017982