Initial activity is underway to lay the new subsea cable which links the island to Jersey, Guernsey Electricity has confirmed. Exploratory and research work has been carried out underwater and the cable is now under manufacture in Sweden.
These first steps start the journey to return Guernsey to full importation capacity of low carbon electricity by the end of 2019. The Island has been relying on power generated on–Island as well as the existing cable which is working at a significantly reduced capacity.
An environmental survey along the cable route in Guernsey waters has been conducted by Eco Marine Consultants Limited. The consultants carried out a seagrass survey in Havelet Bay and gathered sediment samples and imagery of the seabed at 19 sites to characterise the habitats and identify any ecological sensitive areas along the proposed cable route. The results will inform the environmental assessment for the project and plans to lay the cable with minimum disruption to the sea bed.
An investigatory survey at Greve de Lecq beach in Jersey was carried out in early May as part of preparatory works for the installation of the undersea cable. Guernsey Electricity will meet with marine users to ensure seafarers are aware of the activity taking place.
The cable itself is now being manufactured by Danish cable manufacturer NKT and a detailed schedule is being drawn up for the installation activities later this year.
Sally-Ann David, chief operating officer of Guernsey Electricity, said: “It is a significant milestone for the Island that the first steps towards returning our low carbon electricity supply for the future have now been made. These early stages are important to ensure the cable is laid with minimum disruption to our marine environment as well as our coastline, which is our absolute priority.”
The first visible signs of cable replacement activity has been the environmental survey. Some islanders will have noticed the vessel in local waters in the past few weeks.
“The accelerated schedule for this project is part of our commitment to re-establishing theIsland’s full capacity for imported low carbon electricity. We are extremely grateful for the input and assistance of all stakeholders in helping us to achieve this,” added Mrs David.
The manufacture is due to be completed and the cable readied for transport from Sweden to the Channel Islands this autumn. In the interim, significant investigation and preparatory works are being undertaken to secure stakeholders’ permissions and allow the safe and efficient installation of the cable.
