Central Networks this week became the UK's first electricity distributor to switch on an innovative system designed to connect the country's growing number of wind farms without the need for new overhead power lines.

The Ofgem-backed Registered Power Zone (RPZ) will allow some renewable energy generators to connect to the network between Boston and Skegness on the Lincolnshire coast at a much lower cost and without the need to build as much expensive new infrastructure.

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Using live information on air temperature, wind speed and power demand, engineers can make best use of existing power lines and send power where it is most needed. More power can be carried on already-established lines if air temperatures are lower or if stronger winds cool the lines.

"The wind which cools the lines is the wind which generates the electricity," said Jeff Douglas, Head of Network Strategy & Development at Central Networks. "The stronger the wind, the more electricity is produced and the more power our network can carry."

Central Networks is the first to launch a Registered Power Zone, supported by Ofgem to help Britain meet its future targets for renewable energy.

"We welcome Central Networks' successful commissioning of the first RPZ," said Ofgem Networks Managing Director Steve Smith. "We look forward to seeing more RPZs in the future."

(CD/JM)