Power Cable (Folkestone—Sangatte)

HC Deb 21 February 1979 vol 963 cc231-2W

Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for Energy what is the cost of constructing the 2000 mW power cable

example, kindergartens, nursery schools, and infant classes in primary schools. The proportions shown in the table have been calculated by expressing the pupils as a percentage of all children below compulsory school age in each of the member countries.

between Folkestone and Sangatte in France; how Great Britain will benefit, and by how much per year; when it will be operational: and whether he has plans to construct similar cables with other European countries.

Mr. Eadie

The CEGB estimates that its share of the cost of constructing the cross Channel link will be £175 million at March 1979 price levels. For Britain, the link should provide the opportunity to export some 1 million tonnes a year of "coal by wire". Operational and other cost savings are estimated by the Board to amount to £40 million to £50 million per annum.

The first 1000 mW stage of the link is planned to be commissioned in 1983, the second stage in 1984.

The CEGB has not made proposals for any similar links with other European countries, though studies are being undertaken.