Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 23 July 2019
2285. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the detailed cost analyses carried out in respect of the proposed North-South interconnector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34041/19]
View answerEirGrid is the designated Transmission System Operator and its role includes the operation, maintenance and development of the electricity transmission network in Ireland. The construction of the North South Interconnector is an operational matter for EirGrid and ESB Networks and one in which I have no function.
The North South interconnector has been subject to economic analysis and the benefit to cost ratio is very positive. The most recent EirGrid estimates state that the construction costs for the North South Interconnector amount to €180 million for the section that lies in Ireland and £109.3 million being incurred in Northern Ireland.
It is envisaged that the project will lead to initial savings of €20 million in its first year of service, increasing to between €40 million and €60 million each year by 2030, shared between Ireland and Northern Ireland. Much of these savings result from reductions in network constraints that will accrue from its delivery.
