Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

There is a difference between a direct current line and an alternating current line, which is what the grid must be. If one takes electricity from A to B without needing to take any power from that infrastructure between those two points, one can use a direct current line. It is much easier to put direct current lines underground. We do it all of the time. Alternating current, which is what the grid needs to be, poses a more complex problem. The Deputy should know this. We are in the process of trying to roll out that grid while reassuring the public. EirGrid has an obligation to do so to the best of its ability. It is in the middle of that process.

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