Eirgrid held an information roadshow at the Hotel Kilmore, Cavan last week when members of the public could ask questions and get information.
Eirgrid organised the event to discuss the future of energy in the region and to address queries from residents about upcoming infrastructure plans, including the controversial North-South Interconnector.
Meanwhile, in a statement, Chief Infrastructure Officer for Eirgrid, Michael McMahon said the interconnector is "a very strategic project for Ireland and is critical to ensuring we have an electricity grid which is fit for purpose". The proposed north-south interconnector will connect the electricity grids in the Republic with that in Northern Ireland via a 400 kilo Volt overhead cable. Supported by towers, this will see 103km of electricity power line across Cavan, Monaghan and Meath and connect to similar infrastructure in Armagh and Tyrone.
Local landowners and residents object to the overhead cables on health and safety grounds but, are open to them being buried underground through their land. Eirgrid's. Michael McMahon said the interconnector "is critical in terms of providing security of supply, and it will facilitate renewable clean energy into the future."
Mr McMahon added: "As part of this voluntary option agreement process, a fair offer of compensation for an easement has been issued directly to almost 400 landowners, and our team are in the process of engaging directly with them across the coming weeks to answer any and all questions they may have.
"Plans are also in place to liaise with those homeowners situated within 200 meters of the proposed electricity line who will receive proximity payments," he added. A community benefit fund of €12m will also be implemented, providing residents involved in local voluntary, community and sporting organisations with an opportunity to identify projects which can further enhance their locality. Overall, the interconnector will provide a local benefit for the people of the north-east by increasing the capacity of the electricity network in the region, thus helping to attract inward investment and jobs."
Further details on all future EirGrid activity in this region can be found at eirgrid.ie.
