Michael D Higgins (Galway West, Labour)
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Question 107: To ask the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the Grid 25 project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10141/10]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin South, Green Party)
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Grid25 is EirGrid's strategy for developing Ireland's electricity transmission network over the next fifteen years. The plan envisages the doubling of Ireland's grid capacity over the period to 2025, and will involve investment of €4 billion in this critical national infrastructure. I fully support EirGrid's plans for the transmission network as a strategic imperative.

The strengthening of Ireland's transmission grid is essential to allow increased integration of renewable energy in the Irish electricity system, facilitating the growth of secure indigenous energy resources and ensuring for the first time the capacity to export electricity generated in Ireland from renewable resources. It will also ensure secure, competitive and sustainable electricity supplies for industry and consumers by providing the capacity to meet future demand. Grid25 is therefore a key driver of economic growth and recovery. It is central to the achievement of a de-carbonised energy system for Ireland.

As the state owned National Transmission System Operator, EirGrid is proactively progressing Ireland's transmission development needs in line with Grid25, as a matter of priority. Work on a number of 110kV projects and three 220kV projects which have already received planning permission is underway. A further set of projects is currently the subject of public consultation in advance of planning consents being sought. These include key 110kV to 400kV developments at Moneypoint, Aghada, Shannonbridge, Mullingar and Loughteeogue. An application for planning consent was submitted in respect of the Meath Cavan Interconnection Project in December 2009, and construction on the East West Interconnector is scheduled to commence shortly.

In parallel with the roll-out of these projects, EirGrid has undertaken a series of regional briefings with stakeholders, on the longer-term implementation programme for Grid25. Detailed studies are being prepared to specify reinforcement requirements, and will assess environmental impact, technical issues, and route identification for the necessary regional schemes. These will form the basis for consultation with the public and all key stakeholders in the development of this strategic national infrastructure.