Second electricity cable could be running by 2030

A second under-sea electricity cable could be up and running by 2030 in Guernsey under plans being put forward by two of the island's States committees.

The cable would provide a new link to import electricity from France either as a direct connection or via Jersey. It is expected to cost between £113m and £209m.

However States members will be asked by Guernsey's Environment & Infrastructure Committee (E&I) and the States Trading Supervisory Board (STSB) to approve a larger budget of up to £253m as a "prudent approach" while final costs are figured out.

STSB president Mark Helyar said the scheme would require "significant expenditure" but said doing nothing was not a realistic option.

Guernsey Electricity said customers could face above-inflation increases until about 2036 to pay for the investment but over 30 years bills are expected to rise by less than inflation overall.

Guernsey currently imports 90% of its electricity through an undersea cable called GJ1.

The power, which comes from France in a deal with the Channel Islands' governments have with French power provider EDF, is routed through Jersey and into Guernsey from Havelet Bay.

The States committees said they anticipate a second connection to come directly from France.

E&I president Aidran Gabriel said the second connection would improve security and resilience.

"[It will] provide greater energy independence, deliver best value for customers, enable appropriate competition and consumer choice, and minimise environmental impact from on-island power generation."

The proposals are due to be debated by politicians in December.

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