Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 30: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on reports that EirGrid is planning to use new types of power lines to upgrade the grid; the advantages of these proposed power lines; if this plan will have implications for the North-South interconnector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35505/09]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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EirGrid's Grid25 Strategy for developing the electricity transmission grid, has identified 2,000km of the existing system that requires upgrading to provide enhanced capacity, as well as 1,000km of new lines. Upgrading of existing transmission lines as an alternative to building new lines is an effective way of increasing the transmission system capacity, and is an intrinsic part of EirGrid's approach, where feasible. EirGrid has progressively upgraded existing lines over recent years, using new technologies as they emerge.

EirGrid closely monitors new network technologies emerging globally, and tests the appropriateness of new technologies as they become available. EirGrid has recently completed a conductor survey which has broadened the possible options for development of power lines through delivering improved capacity for new and existing power lines. While new conductors will not be the answer in all cases, they can represent a more efficient and effective way to upgrade existing transmission lines than traditional techniques.

Upgrading of existing lines as an option does not always meet system requirements. There are of course, cases where new power lines are required to meet demand and ensure security of electricity supply regionally and nationally. The North South Interconnector, which involves the construction of a new line, is vital for future security of supply North and South and EirGrid advises that deployment of new technologies on existing transmission lines elsewhere would be adequate to address the requirements which the North South project is designed to address.