‘Neither our economy nor our climate can wait any longer’ - EirGrid CEO

EirGrid has said it will openly engage with communities affected by the development of the North South Interconnector to ensure its benefits are understood by and shared with those living closest to the route.

It made the pledge after the project finally received planning approval in both jurisdictions. The semi-state body also announced a €10M community fund for those affected.

“We will also engage openly with landowners in relation to land access. There are approximately 450 landowners across Meath, Cavan and Monaghan directly affected by the project. There are a further 180 in Northern Ireland.

“Compensation will be paid to all landowners for hosting the infrastructure, in addition to compensation for crop loss or land damage during the construction phase of the project,” said CEO Mark Foley.

He has described the project as “the most important infrastructure scheme” on the island today. He said it is “critical” to improving the security of electricity supply across the island of Ireland and helping the country move towards a target of 70% renewable electricity by 2030.

“The Interconnector is essential for ensuring local businesses have the power they need to expand and to attract Foreign Direct Investment, with investors seeking an efficient, green and secure electricity supply.

“This vital project has been in the planning system for more than a decade, including extensive consultation; neither our economy nor our climate can wait any longer,” said.

The interconnector is a 400kV overhead line running from Meath, through Cavan, Monaghan, Armagh to Tyrone.

Eirgrid contends numerous studies have shown it is not feasible to put the lines under the ground due to technical and economic reasons.

“EirGrid agriculture liaison officers will continue to engage with landowners and keep them informed as the project progresses. All of the access routes for construction, over 500 in total, were identified as part of the planning process.

“Landowners have been provided with maps and aerial photographs showing where these pass through their lands. At this stage we do not envisage making any changes to the access routes, however, if any landowners would like to suggest alternatives or modifications we are happy to discuss,” continued Mr Foley.

Local agricultural and community liaison officers are available to answer questions.

In parallel, ESB Networks, which will build the interconnector in the Republic of Ireland, will carry out all of the relevant tendering and procurement processes, taking into account compliance with planning conditions arising from the consenting process.

“When these processes are complete, construction can begin. It is important to note that landowner and community engagement will continue throughout construction in order to minimise disruption. It is anticipated that the project will take three years to build.

“EirGrid will also establish a North South Interconnector community fund to the value of €10m. This will include proximity payments for homeowners located within 200 metres of the project and a community gain fund. The community gain fund will support community-led projects, which deliver long lasting benefits to the communities close to the line,” said Mr Foley.