Surveyors Seek Power Route Across the Irish Sea

Jan 9, 2008 - Daily Post, Liverpool

A marine survey has begun mapping a potential route to carry high voltage electricity cables between Wales and the Republic of Ireland.

The East West Interconnector is being developed by EirGrid, the independent electricity transmission system operator in Ireland, and will enable two-way transmission of power under the Irish Sea.

The 500 megawatt EirGrid Interconnector will comprise undersea cables across the Irish Sea connecting the transmission system in the Republic of Ireland to that in Britain.

Grid connection points have been secured in both countries and the interconnector is expected to be operational by 2012.

When completed, the interconnector will provide benefits to electricity consumers on both sides of the Irish Sea. It will have the potential to create access to a new market for energy generated in Wales.

The marine survey will help in the selection of a preferred route for EirGrid's proposed interconnector.

Deeside has been identified as the proposed UK Grid connection point but EirGrid says it will not be possible to confirman exact route until the results of detailed feasibility and marine surveys are completed later this year.

EirGrid's East West Interconnector project director John Fitzgerald said full information is being made available to the relevant bodies to ensure all mariners and others using the Irish Sea are aware that the survey is taking place.