Written ministerial statement by Charles Hendry on the cost of installing underground power cables  

31 JANUARY 2012 The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) has today published a comprehensive study on the whole life costs of installing new high voltage transmission lines under the ground, under the sea and over ground. This study has been undertaken at the Government’s request in order to provide an authoritative and independent point of reference for the Infrastructure Planning Commission in evaluating planning applications for new transmission connections and reinforcements. Research and production of the study has been carried out by international engineering consultancy Parsons Brinckerhoff, in association with Cable Consulting International.  It draws on a broad range of data from manufacturers, installers, operators and other parties.  National Grid has funded the work, and the IET has provided independent quality assurance.  Main findings are as follows: ...