Eirgrid has said it will keep an open mind on the future of its Gridwest scheme after reopening the public consultation process to allow consideration of an underground option.

A Government decision to examine the feasibility of putting two controversial powerlines underground has been described as an “election stunt” to appease backbenchers under pressure in their constituencies.

Living next to a pylon is “completely safe” and putting high-voltage lines underground would add some €2bn to the cost of upgrading the electricity network, it has been claimed.

Eirgrid is planning a €1bn interconnector to France to be completed by 2025 as part of a plan to integrate Ireland into the wider European electric grid.