EirGrid defends plan for 40km overhead power line

A proposal to run a 110kV overhead power line across a 40km stretch of rural Co Cork will provide security of supply and help export renewable energy, an oral hearing has heard.

However, the project is proving contentious in parts of the south-west.

A written submission by a group, Communities before Pylons, queries the need for the proposed Clashavoon-Dunmanway 110kV line. The group claims that, due to the economic downturn, there has been a significant reduction in the demand for electricity.

Individual objectors also claim that EirGrid has exaggerated the projected energy demand.

On the opening day of the oral hearing yesterday, Brian Mullins, EirGrid transmission projects manager, said the development will assist the Government in reaching a target of 40% renewable energy generation by 2020.

It will also increase the security and reliability of electricity supply, he said. “The new 110kV double wood pole line is vital to ensure a continued reliable source of electricity for all those living and working in the area. This line will enable the region to utilise its rich renewable energy resources.”

Mr Mullins said a strong electricity network will help boost existing industry in the south-west when competing for business and inward investment in the area.

The proposed project will link Clashavoon electricity substation north-east of Macroom, Co Cork, and Dunmanway electricity substation. It forms part of EirGrid’s strategy for the reinforcement and development of the grid infrastructure in the south-west as detailed in its Grid25 strategy.

Louis Fisher, EirGrid transmission network planning manager, said the existing transmission network in south-west Cork did not have enough spare capacity to accommodate the 185MW of renewable generation planned in the area.

EirGrid, he asserted, had not exaggerated the projected demand for electricity in the area. “While demand for electricity has fallen since the economic downturn, a 2012 review of the case for this project indicated that the need remains.”

Addressing written submissions from objectors who question the justification for a third line in the south-west Cork area, Mr Fisher said it was vital to guarantee the “security of the supply of demand for electricity”.

He also rejected suggestions the existing lines could be upgraded. “There will still be just two lines supplying the area.

“During the routine maintenance of one of the lines, an unplanned outage of the other would leave the entire area disconnected.”

The hearing will resume at 10am today. Objectors are expected to commence their submissions this afternoon.