TYRONE CAVAN INTERCONNECTOR PLANS - CONSULTATION PROCESS

14/11/2007

Over the past few weeks Northern Ireland Electricity has continued a consultation process aimed at making widely available the plans for the new Tyrone to Cavan electricity interconnector. As part of this process NIE has met with members of Armagh and Dungannon councils to discuss the project in detail.  
 
Last month, more than 150 people visited a week-long exhibition at Armagh’s Market Place Theatre at which NIE displayed details of the proposed Tyrone-Cavan Interconnector.  
 
Billy Graham, Chief Operating Officer of NIE, explained that around 950 local residents living within a kilometre either side of the proposed route of the electricity interconnector, were sent information packs before the information event.  
 
“We will continue to meet with local people and public representatives in the Armagh and Dungannon areas to talk about the plans. I am pleased that local people and their representatives have engaged with us frankly and openly in order to give us their views on the proposed route for the interconnector.” says Mr Graham.  
 
“There is no doubt that the majority of people recognise the need for further interconnection between the two electricity grids, north and south. The proposed new interconnector is needed to realise fully the economic benefits for customers of the new Single Electricity Market in Ireland, to help increase the volumes of renewable energy that can be connected to the network and to further secure electricity supplies. However, we appreciate that local people have concerns, primarily about visual impact, health and the effect on land and property.  
 
“These concerns will be formally dealt with in the comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment we are undertaking in conjunction with our application for Planning Permission for the project” he says.  
 
NIE is continuing to consult with as many local residents and interested parties as possible to ensure everyone is aware of the proposals. Anyone who considers they should have been consulted about the project but as yet haven’t, should contact NIE on 08457 643 643.  
 

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