Public Consultation launched for Cam Cluster Project

Electricity systems across the world are changing. At SONI, we have the crucial task of transforming the electricity system to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and support Northern Ireland’s clean energy and climate action goals. 

That means we must make changes to our grid infrastructure and how we use it to introduce newer and more forms of renewable energy. 

Part of this task involves developing a new cluster substation between Coleraine and Limavady in the Cam area. The Cam Cluster Project follows NIE Networks’ cluster methodology which aims to improve access to the network for renewable generation by grouping generators to a specific location to create a more efficient connection with reduced environmental impact. 

There are a number of approved renewable generation projects in the Cam area which have created the need for a new cluster substation. Plans for the new substation will also prepare for future growth in renewable generation as we decarbonise the electricity network, ensuring that consumers can benefit from cleaner, cheaper, more secure electricity in the future.

Nathan McBride, Cam Cluster Project Manager commented:

“We know projects such as Cam Cluster can impact local communities and landowners. To ensure that the surrounding community can feed into our plans, we are continuing to engage with key stakeholders and landowners during the pre-construction phase of development. 

“Before making a planning application to Causeway, Coast and Glens Borough Council later this year, we want to invite the local community to attend our upcoming public drop-in event on Thursday 26th June at Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, 24 Main Street, Limavady BT49 0FJ (14:00 – 20:00). 

“The public consultation event will provide the opportunity for interested stakeholders and landowners to view information on the proposals and provide feedback, while also engaging with our project management team and planning engineers who have designed the infrastructure with input from our partners NIE Networks."

Ends

Feedback can also be provided via our consultation portal (https://consult.soni.ltd.uk/)  or via email at info@soni.ltd.uk. If you would prefer to make a written submission, you can post it to SONI HQ, 12 Manse Road, Belfast, BT6 9RT.