Regulator to give green light to GBP 44 million of investment in renewables

The Utility Regulator has signalled its intention to approve over GBP 44 million of investment to facilitate renewable wind generation.

The investment will increase the amount of renewable generation in the north and west of Northern Ireland that can access NIE’s transmission network. The investment package comprises:

• GBP 26 million of capital expenditure to increase the capacity of the Tamnamore sub-station to accommodate renewable generation
• GBP 2.6 million for upgrades to the Kells-Coleraine circuit; and
• GBP 1.25 million for pre-construction costs for a third circuit between Omagh and Tamnamore with a further GBP 14.75 million earmarked for the completion of the capital works.

This investment should ensure that the network can accommodate 1000MW of renewable wind generation.  Currently, 451MW of wind generation is connected in Northern Ireland and a further 550MW has received planning permission.