RenewableUK Cymru has reported that a proposed Western MWNC electricity transmission route through Wales could generate £1.3 billion in benefits.
The route would include a new substation in Mid Wales and is being considered as part of the National Energy System Operator’s Beyond 2030 – Electricity Transmission Update.
RenewableUK Cymru director Jessica Hooper said the decision involved more than the positioning of pylons.
The choice would determine whether Wales had the infrastructure required to develop a stronger economy and retain the value generated by the project within the country.
According to the organisation’s report, The Full Value of Connection, the route would support 540 long-term jobs and provide economic and community benefits that an alternative route bypassing Wales would not deliver.
The proposed MWNC option would add up to 3GW of connection capacity for onshore wind and solar projects in Wales.
RenewableUK Cymru said the projects could produce nearly £60 million each year in business rates and community benefits for Mid and North Wales after construction had finished.
The report found that the main economic gains would come from the continued operation of renewable energy projects made possible by the transmission expansion, rather than from construction activity alone.