OPERATION OF THE first ever electricity connector between the Republic of Ireland and mainland Britain’s power grids has been deferred following reports suggesting it may be affecting phone lines.

Eirgrid confirmed that a programme of works is getting underway to address some telephone noise interference issues that have been reported. It said the commercial go-live date of the interconnector will now be temporarily deferred.

The construction of the East West Interconnector was completed at the end of September and was officially switched on by Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Pat Rabitte.

The company said the interconnector has successfully transferred power in both directions but in testing a potential telephone noise interference issue with some localised telephones in the vicinity was identified.

“We are working with the telecoms providers and with our contractor to investigate and address this issue,” Eirgrid said in a statement.

“In addition to implementing the works for a robust enduring solution, we are also investigating potential temporary measures to allow the interconnector to operate as soon as possible.”

Read: British-Irish electricity interconnector to be opened today>