Mayo losing out on investment due to big power grid issues
Mayo is continuing to lose out on growth opportunities due to shortcomings in its electricity infrastructure, The Connaught Telegraph can confirm.
It has been revealed the existing grid is not capable of accommodating 'numerous' wind farms across the county which have planning permission to develop while questions have been raised by an Oireachtas member over the situation relating two data new centres in north Mayo.
The problem stems from a lack of public and political support for major infrastructural upgrades, including the proposed 400 kV project in Mayo some years ago.
Noel Cunniffe, chief executive officer, Wind Energy Ireland, said a number of very large-scale infrastructure projects were proposed as part of the Grid25 programme.
But many were not progressed due to a lack of political and public support.
"Had those projects been delivered, Mayo would be in a much stronger position to grow demand, expand renewables and take offshore wind power,” he explained.
"We are still experiencing that today with the delivery of the North-South interconnector. Colleagues in EirGrid and ESB Networks are doing a great job in trying to get that project over the line but there is continued political opposition to it. That is absolutely vital infrastructure for our island to progress and to grow our economy."
“We are still experiencing that today with the delivery of the North-South interconnector.
“That is absolutely vital infrastructure for our island to progress and to grow our economy.”
Reacting to the remarks, Mayo Senator Mark Duffy said a 110 kV line is now being delivered in Mayo as opposed to a 400 kV line.
"The west coast has a significant role to play in harnessing renewable energy. I refer to the former Asahi site in Killala, where planning permission is in place for two data centres and there is a proposal for renewable energy biomass. A transatlantic fibre optic cable also lands on the site.
"Consequently, I would have concerns about the constraints limiting investment and projects in Mayo."
The Ballina-based representative added: "It is important that we bring people along with us on the journey and that we communicate and make clear the net gains, the positives and the potential for our society when we do this right and do it well."
Mr. Cunniffe said his organisation sees general consensus that growing our electrical grid is vital for the country but, when it comes down to local politics and elections for TDs and local councillors, it is often challenged.
"It is part of our political system and needs to be taken into account,” he added.
"But there needs to be a recognition that, if electricity infrastructure is not progressed in people's areas, they will lose out on opportunities for growth," he explained.