News of infrastructural investment in Ireland's electricity supply has been marred in controversy, over the further construction of overhead power line.

The €4b injection to the country's transmission network will more than double electricity capacity by 2025, according the utility supplier.

EirGrid said the expansion would drive forward the use of renewable energy, support a balanced approach to regional development and deliver more jobs.

However, the installation of overhead power cables continues to prove a controversial issue.

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Currently 6,000 kilometres of overhead lines run through Ireland, but this is expected to grow by around 20% in the next 17 years, to meet supply demands.

The increased role of wind power will force change to the grid, according to EirGrid.

More than 4,000km of transmission lines will be upgraded, while more than 1,000km of new lines are to be constructed.

Campaigners, such as North East Pylon Pressure, continue to argue that power cables should be buried, rather than building more pylons.

EirGrid has allayed health fears and insisted the upgrade scheme is still subject to planning.

The massive upgrade will be funded by customers, who can expect a small year-on-year increase in their bills.

Energy Minister Eamon Ryan suggested the changes would result in overall savings - as the revitalised grid will be able to access cheaper electricity.

(PR/JM)