National Grid needs £4.7bn investment

A report that has been produced for the electricity industry by the Electricity Networks Strategy Group (ENSG), chaired by the Department of Energy and Climate Change and industry regulator Ofgem, has concluded that vital work and investment in the National Grid is needed, as well as an innovative proposal for high-voltage sub-sea cable links between Scotland and England.

The plans which are to be the largest investment in the National Grid for nearly 50 years is to update and introduce 620 miles of new cabling that will link remote wind farms and the new generation of nuclear power stations to the major cities.

The costs will be added to consumer bills and according to the National Grid, Scottish & Southern and Scottish Power the latest estimates are that it will add about 1 percent to electricity bills which mean a £6 increase per year, per household.

The changes are integral to the UK’s commitment to be able to source 30 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020 as well as the development and incorporation of new nuclear plants.

Energy and Climate Change Minister, Mike O’Brien, has said that this project is a long term investment opportunity and the work will help to support jobs in the current economy.

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