But now, 'exploratory and research work' has been carried out underwater and the cable is now under manufacture in Sweden - meaning the first steps are being taken to reintroduce imported power, which is 'low carbon electricity'. That should happen by the end of 2019.

Pictured: A fault off the coast of Jersey on 1 October 2018 means Guernsey has been relying on locally produced power since then. 

An environmental survey along the cable route in Guernsey waters has been conducted by Eco Marine Consultants Limited. The consultants carried out a seagrass survey in Havelet Bay and gathered 'sediment samples and imagery of the seabed at 19 sites to characterise the habitats and identify any ecological sensitive areas along the proposed cable route'.

The results of that survey willow be used to inform the environmental assessment for the project so plans can be made to lay the cable with minimum disruption to the sea bed. An investigatory survey at Greve de Lecq beach in Jersey was carried out in early May as part of preparatory works for the installation of the undersea cable.

Guernsey Electricity will also meet marine users to ensure seafarers are aware of the activity taking place.

The cable itself is now being manufactured by Danish cable manufacturer NKT and a detailed schedule is being drawn up for the installation activities later this year.

Sally-Ann David, Chief Operating Officer of Guernsey Electricity, said: "It is a significant milestone for the Island that the first steps towards returning our low carbon electricity supply for the future have now been made. These early stages are important to ensure the cable is laid with minimum disruption to our marine environment as well as our coastline, which is our absolute priority."

"The accelerated schedule for this project is part of our commitment to re-establishing theIsland’s full capacity for imported low carbon electricity. We are extremely grateful for the input and assistance of all stakeholders in helping us to achieve this," added Mrs David.

The manufacture is due to be completed and the cable readied for transport from Sweden to the Channel Islands this autumn. In the interim, significant investigation and preparatory works are being undertaken to secure stakeholders’ permissions and allow the safe and efficient installation of the cable.

Pictured top: The boat carrying out the survey has been seen in Guernsey waters.