Ministers from both sides of the border have helped open three upgraded electricity interconnectors which link the Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland grids.

The interconnectors link the NIE and the ESB grids between Tandragee and Louth; Strabane and Letterkenny, and Enniskillen and Corraclassy.

Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, Sir Reg Empey attended the event Mary O’Rourke, TD, Minister for Public Enterprise, at the main North South interconnector in Louth.

Commenting on the significance of the event Sir Reg said: “The opening of these interconnectors is an important step in the realisation of an all island electricity market, linked to the wider European grid, which will facilitate increased competition and subsequent pressure on pricing in both jurisdictions.

"Over the coming weeks and months, these energy issues will gain momentum with several key developments, not just in relation to electricity, but increased gas accessibility and the use of renewable energy.

“Such developments are critical in changing the energy market and ultimately making the market work better for both domestic and business consumers.”

Minister O’Rourke recalled that when she and Sir Reg first met in December 1999, they requested the grid companies to bring forward this initiative. She commented: “This doubling of interconnector capacity, along with additional generating capacity coming on stream from new plants in the Dublin area, means that in the South, we will be able comfortably to meet our power supply requirements arising from the significant growth in the economy.

“But more importantly, the interconnector project is another important stepping stone in the establishment of an all-island energy market which will provide major benefits to consumers, north and south.

“Although energy was not among the specific areas outlined in the Good Friday Agreement in terms of North-South ventures, it has been one sector in which significant progress has been achieved in a short period of time. As a result, consumers, business and industry will benefit in the future."

Both Ministers congratulated NIE and ESB National Grid on the development of the interconnection projects and expressed their appreciation of European Union support of £4 million, from the European Regional Development Fund, towards the £12 million cost of the upgrading of the interconnectors. NIE and ESB National Grid are sharing the remaining £8 million cost equally. (MB)