Pauline Tully (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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55. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if it will be ensured that an independent analysis of the north-south interconnector takes place in line with the motion passed by Dáil Éireann on 16 February 2017 in view of the fact that the communities affected by the proposed Kildare-Meath grid upgrade are being consulted on an underground option; if he will establish a consultation process for the communities affected by the proposed north-south interconnector with the option of undergrounding this project included as part of the consultation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1459/21]

Eamon Ryan (Dublin Bay South, Green Party)
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The North-South Interconnector is critical to improving the efficient operation of the all-island single electricity market and increasing security of electricity supply in Ireland and Northern Ireland. It will also help Ireland to move towards 70% renewable electricity, a commitment made in the Programme for Government. A resilient and well-connected energy infrastructure is vital for Ireland’s economic well-being and the ability to respond to the future needs of energy consumers.

Government does not have any role in the delivery of electricity infrastructure on the ground. This is consistent with  the 2012 Government Policy Statement on the Strategic Importance of Transmission and Other Energy Infrastructure which states: ‘The Government does not seek to direct EirGrid and ESB Networks or other energy infrastructure developers to particular sites or routes or technologies’. The Kildare-Meath project is not comparable with the North South project, particularly in terms of distance.

The option of undergrounding the North-South Interconnector has been comprehensively assessed on several occasions.  Most recently and fully in line with the resolution of Dáil Éireann of 16 February 2017, my department commissioned an independent report incorporating international industry expertise to examine the technical feasibility and cost of undergrounding the north-south interconnector. The report from the International Expert Commission was published in October 2018 and it found that an overhead line remains the most appropriate option for this piece of critical electricity infrastructure. I do not intend ordering a further such review.

EirGrid and ESB Networks, as our electricity system operators, always seek to work in close collaboration with landowners and stakeholders in the delivery of electricity infrastructure. Both companies are engaging with those living closest to the route of the interconnector. In that regard I note that EirGrid has already set in place a variety of engagements locally, including the appointment of community liaison officers and a mobile information unit active in the area. I expect such engagements to intensify in the coming weeks and months, subject of course to national public health guidelines on Covid-19.