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A proposed power cable project connecting Morocco to the UK has raised concerns among residents in north Devon (A region in southwest England). The Xlinks Morocco-UK Power Project, aimed at providing electricity for seven million UK homes by the early 2030s, has been declared a project of national significance by the UK government, according to the BBC.
The scheme involves laying four cables over about 2,500 miles (4,000km), coming ashore near Abbotsham in north Devon. James Humfrey, CEO of Xlinks, told the BBC the project would deliver energy «when the UK needs it most, in the evenings».
However, local residents have expressed strong reservations. Tony Sloan, a local resident, told the BBC: «I feel devastated. The area will be in chaos for years».
The construction in Devon is expected to take six years if approved. It involves burying cables along a nine-mile (14.5km) route onshore, building a new substation, and constructing two converter stations.
Farmer David Lomas, whose land would be affected, expressed skepticism: «I like the idea of green energy but to bring it over from Morocco, I think it's a crazy idea», he told the BBC.
The project is estimated to cost between £22bn and £24bn. Despite local opposition, the UK government appears supportive of such initiatives, with a spokesperson stating they are «taking immediate action in our mission to make Britain a clean energy superpower».
As the planning process continues, the final decision on the project rests with the UK secretary of state.
