Independent panel thinks Eirgrid will ditch plan for underground power lines

An independent expert panel says it believes EirGrid is "highly unlikely" to progress plans for major new overhead or underground power lines in the years ahead.

The Grid Link programme has been the subject of intense public scrutiny in recent years over environmental and health fears.

However, the expert group says it believes EirGrid is now showing a "clear preference" for a so-called "Regional" plan, which would see existing infrastructure developed to boost transmission.

EirGrid is due to respond to the report today.