Construction starts on electricity link between France, Ireland

(EurActiv, 14 Nov 2023) Construction on a high-voltage subsea cable able to carry enough power for 450,000 homes, with the aim of boosting energy security and helping to reduce bills, began on Monday between France and Ireland.

The ‘Celtic Interconnector’, which is due to be completed in 2026 and should be connected to the grid by 2027, “signifies an important step forward for the energy future of both countries” according to a joint press release from the two governments.

“Increased electricity interconnection will be a key enabler in our growing use of renewable energy, will also help lower energy prices and play a central role in Ireland’s journey to a net zero power system,” said Irish environment and Climate Minister Eamon Ryan.

His French counterpart, Agnès Pannier-Runacher, who travelled to Dublin to mark the event, said she was “thrilled to inaugurate the Celtic Interconnector” and that it would boost the security of supply and decarbonisation efforts in France and Ireland.

Once completed, the 700-megawatt cable will run between Ireland’s south coast and France’s north coast, creating a direct link between the Irish and the EU’s electricity grid.

External link

EurActiv, 14 Nov 2023: Construction starts on electricity link between France, Ireland