DETINI working to strenghten electricity grid in NW

DETINI is also co-operating with both the Irish and Scottish Governments to explore the feasibility of a submarine grid to transmit marine renewable energy. It is also looking at the potential for creating bio-fuel from seaweed.

Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment Arlene Foster outlined the level of international co-operation in response to a query at the Stormont Assembly saying the engagement with Dublin on energy matters was part of a policy set out in the 2004 All-island Energy Market Development Framework.

She stated: "The two Departments undertook a joint cross border grid study that established the feasibility of transmitting 40 per cent of electricity from renewable sources.

"This led to further work to strengthen the grid infrastructure and system controls, which is needed to absorb high levels of renewable power generation, especially in the west and northwest.

"It includes providing more North-South electricity interconnection as part of grid upgrading, which is critical to meeting the 40 per cent target.

"Both Departments also support the Regulatory Authorities' work to develop the Single Electricity Market (SEM) as part of a regional wholesale market with the GB market. A key aim is to facilitate regional trading in renewable electricity.

"In addition, my Department is working with both the Irish and the Scottish Governments on a feasibility study for an undersea grid to transmit marine renewable energy, as well as primary research into production of 3rd generation bio-fuels from marine seaweeds and algae."