Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael)
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Question 341: To ask the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the amount of spare capacity on the national ESB grid; and the breakdown by county. [22188/05]

Noel Dempsey (Meath, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by ESB National Grid that the capacity of the power system can be divided in terms of generation capacity and transmission capacity. The latest figures from ESB National Grid show there are 5,800 MW of generation capacity connected to the Irish power system. Peak demand in the coming winter is forecast to reach 4,600 MW. Generation capacity is shared by all customers nationwide and is not therefore divided by county. The ESB National Grid generation adequacy report set out when new generation will be needed, taking into account the availability of existing power stations and the ongoing increase in consumer demand. This report is published on ESB National Grid's website. I will forward a printed copy of the report to the Deputy for reference.

Regarding transmission capacity, transmission lines and stations are constructed in order to meet ongoing demand growth, or when either a generator or large customer seeks a connection to the power system. ESB National Grid annually publishes details of where transmission capacity is available for large customers. Its forecast statement, which is also available from the website, provides details of the locations where capacity is available and the works that are planned to put this capacity in place. Again, I will forward a printed copy to the Deputy for reference.

ESB National Grid has plans for €700 million investment in new and upgraded high-voltage transmission infrastructure over the next five years. This investment will facilitate all customers, including large industries, power stations and wind farms.