The Utility Regulator today publishes its determination of additional funding which will allow NIE Networks to carry out pre-construction works on the Ballylumford – Eden 110kV OHL project.
In its business plan for the current price control (RP6) NIE Networks made us aware of a number of projects that might be required during the price control but were not sufficiently advanced to provide accurate cost estimates. Ballylumford - Eden is one such project. We included a mechanism in the price control to fund these projects as the need was confirmed and cost estimates prepared.
The project is necessary to maintain the integrity of the overhead line and provide greater current carrying capacity between Ballylumford power station and Castlereagh substation. If this project does not go ahead the integrity of the transmission system in Northern Ireland may be impacted. In addition, the overhead line could deteriorate potentially becoming a safety hazard to the public.
Our determined allowance of £1,390k for pre-construction works will allow NIE Networks to undertake the investigations, design and procurement work necessary to submit a robust estimate of construction costs to us for further analysis and determination. It will also allow the company to provide a safe working environment for its contractors by diverting distribution line undercrossings.