PART IIN.I.ELECTRICITY SUPPLY

Protection of public interestN.I.

Consent required for overhead linesN.I.

40.—(1) Subject to paragraph (2), an electric line shall not be installed or kept installed above ground except in accordance with a consent granted by the Department.

(2) Paragraph (1) shall not apply—

(a)in relation to an electric line which has a nominal voltage not exceeding 20 kilovolts and is used or intended to be used for supplying a single consumer;

(b)in relation to so much of an electric line as is or will be within premises in the occupation or control of the person responsible for its installation; or

(c)in such other cases as may be prescribed.

[F1(2A) The Department shall only grant a consent under paragraph (1) in relation to a direct line (within the meaning of the Directive) where it is satisfied that it will meet the published criteria.

(2B) Where the Department refuses to grant to any person a consent under paragraph (1), it shall by notice in writing—

(a)inform him of the fact;

(b)give him the reasons for that refusal; and

(c)inform him of his right to challenge the refusal.]

(3) A consent under this Article—

(a)may include such conditions (including conditions as to the ownership and operation of the line) as appear to the Department to be appropriate;

(b)may be varied or revoked by the Department at any time after the end of such period as may be specified in the consent; and

(c)subject to sub-paragraph (b), shall continue in force for such period as may be specified in or determined by or under the consent.

(4) Any person who without reasonable excuse contravenes the provisions of this Article shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale.

(5) No proceedings shall be instituted in respect of an offence under this Article except by or on behalf of the Department.

[F1(6) In this Article, “published criteria” means the criteria determined by the Department from time to time in accordance with and for the purposes of [F2Article 7(2)] of the Directive and published by it.]

F1SR 2005/335