ScottishPower welcomes the Governments decision on the North Yorkshire line which will lead to increased electricity sales from Scotland, boost the long-term prospects of the Scottish coal industry and lead to price benefits for electricity customers.

Scottish mines, which sell the vast majority of their coal to ScottishPower, will gain from increased requirements at the Longannet and Cockenzie power stations. The decision should also help ensure the planned expansion of the Longannet deep mine complex.

In addition, customers on both sides of the border will benefit from downward pressure on Pool electricity prices.

The upgrade will mean that the Anglo-Scottish interconnector can take up to 2200 megawatts compared to the current limit of 1600 megawatts. Aside from the economic benefits, it will give a greater security of supply to England and Wales particularly during severe winter weather when demand reaches record levels.

Ken Vowles, ScottishPower's Executive Director - Generation, said: "ScottishPower is committed to the local coal industry and this decision is good news, not only for the Scottish economy but also for electricity customers as the domestic market opens to competition."

Further Information:
Sue Clark,                              ScottishPower                        0141 248 8200