EXHIBIT 23 CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS We consent to the use of our report dated October 29, 1999 with respect to the financial statements of Compressed Gas Insulated Transmission included in Aztec Manufacturing Co.'s Current Report on Form 8-K/A dated November 15, 1999. By: /s/ Ernst & Young, LLP -------------------------- Boston, Massachusetts November 12, 1999