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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 29 Mar 1995

Vol. 451 No. 3

Written Answers. - European Electricity Interconnector.

Desmond J. O'Malley

Question:

11 Mr. O'Malley asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications the present position regarding the proposed European electricity network interconnector. [6510/95]

Detailed studies have shown that a link with the United Kingdom mainland is technically feasible. However, an economic feasibility study of the project has indicated that, in order to underpin the project economics, significant grant-aid would be required. Studies indicate that for the project risks to be acceptable, external funding in the order of 50 per cent would be required. It is unlikely at this stage that the project could proceed in the absence of such funding.

However, with the recommissioning of the North-South interconnector, interconnection between Great Britain and Northern Ireland will result in the ESB network being connected with the greater United Kingdom/European interconnected grid.

This could increase competition in the electricity supply industry in Ireland and open up opportunities for the ESB to compete in the United Kingdom. However, given the size of the proposed Northern Ireland-Scotland interconnector — 250 megawatts — the extent of any such trading would be limited.

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