Minister's plea over all-island energy market
The British and Irish governments should pursue an all-island energy policy, Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Noel Dempsey said today.
Mr Dempsey told a conference in Dublin it would benefit both consumers and business alike.
“We owe it to the next generation to be more challenging and farsighted in our energy management strategy and the development of the all-island energy market is a good example of this,” he said.
In an address to an energy policy conference, organised by trade union Amicus, the minister said a single electricity market was being driven by plans for further interconnection.
His comments were backed by Jerry Shanahan of Amicus who said a single market was a reality.
“I think it is a reality. I think all strategies, all policies, all of the major providers are all working to an agenda which is based on a single market,” Mr Shanahan said.
And he urged all interested parties to debate the pros and cons of nuclear power before making a decision.
Mr Dempsey said the planned second North-South electricity interconnector, which will be operational by 2012 at the latest, will enhance security of supply and double the existing cross-border electricity transfer capacity to over 600MW.
“In a very short timeframe we have moved to a position where we are now looking at taking the first step towards creating a seamless energy market on this island, with the establishment of the Single Electricity Market next year.
“While much remains to be done, both Governments are encouraged by the widespread and enthusiastic support for the all-island project and we are confident that the challenges ahead will be met.”
He added: “I believe that our long-term energy future lies not as two distinct energy markets isolated from the rest of Europe, but rather as part of a regional energy market in conjunction with Britain and possibly with other north European neighbours.”
