It is hoped that the investment will increase the amount of renewable generation in the north and west of Northern Ireland that can access Northern Ireland Electricity’s transmission network.
Northern Ireland plans to provide 40 per cent of its electricity demand from renewable sources by 2020. The Utility Regulator estimates that 1,000 megawatts of wind on the system can provide 27% of electricity demand in 2020 and the grid investment is expected to accommodate that.
The investment package includes £26.00 million to increase the capacity of the Tamnamore sub-station to accommodate renewable generation, £2.60 million for upgrades to the Kells-Coleraine circuit and £1.25 million for pre-construction costs for a third circuit between Omagh and Tamnamore. An additional £14.75 million has been earmarked for the completion of the capital works.