Grid connection issues on agenda

Jun 21 2012

The "high" transmission charges to connect renewable energy generators to the National Grid will be discussed at a meeting of British and Irish ministers.

Upgrades to the outdated grid - which currently sees millions of pounds paid to energy companies to switch off their turbines to prevent them overloading the system - will also be on the table.

First Minister Alex Salmond, Scottish Secretary Michael Moore and Taoiseach Enda Kenny will join representatives from Wales, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey at a meeting of the British-Irish Council in Stirling.

Mr Salmond has unveiled an action plan to accelerate electricity generation from the sea ahead of the meeting.

The plan outlines progress made since the launch of the 2009 Marine Energy Road Map and makes recommendations to help improve access to finance, grid development, infrastructure and supply chain, the planning regime and engagement with Europe.

Mr Salmond said: "The new action plan highlights the great progress made to date, particularly in the last three years since the road map was published. Importantly, it outlines the steps now required to be taken by governments, public agencies and the private sector to realise the industry's ambitions.

"It makes clear that grid development remains a priority for the industry, and that must include a fair system of transmission charging for renewables generation in the islands."

Island generators pay six times as much to connect to the grid than mainland generators. Aquamarine Power's array off Lewis faces £3.5 million annual grid connection charges compared to just £40,000 for a similar sized array in south east England.

Martin McAdam, CEO of Aquamarine Power, said: "Grid infrastructure and transmission charging remain major issues, and in our view the proposed high transmission charges for Scottish islands will jeopardise at least 66% of all marine energy projects - a position we believe may be discriminatory against wave technology in particular.

"That is why this action plan is particularly welcome."