Milestone reached in East Cork electricity grid project

A MAJOR infrastructure project which will link the electricity grids of Ireland and France from a substation in east Cork to one on the north-west coast of France, has reached a significant milestone.

The Celtic Interconnector project will, when completed, involve a power cable running from Knockraha, in east Cork, under the sea, and on to the French network at La Martyre, Finistère.

In an important step forward for the project, work has now commenced on the installation of the high voltage alternating current (HVAC) cable on the land side of the project in east Cork.

The project is being developed by EirGrid, the electricity transmission system operator in Ireland, and its French counterpart, RTÉ (Réseau de Transport d’Électricité).

When completed, the interconnector, which is co-funded by EirGrid and RTÉ with some co-financing from the EU, is expected to allow the movement of enough electricity to power 450,000 homes.

The latest phase of works consists of the installation of bespoke HVAC cables within the newly installed HVAC ducts and between the newly installed joint bays, where the cable ends will subsequently be jointed.

Once completed, it is envisaged that the Celtic Interconnector will bring many benefits for Ireland, France and the EU, making the supply of electricity more secure.

Because it would provide Ireland’s only direct energy connection to an EU member state, it is planned that the interconnector would help Ireland to achieve its climate objectives and help to reduce the cost of electricity.

Michael Mahon, EirGrid’s chief infrastructure officer, said advancement of the project underscored the commitment of contractors and agencies to enhancing energy connectivity and contributing to more secure and sustainable electricity.

“Without the expertise and hard work of all partners involved, this achievement would not have been possible to progress the project.

“As we mark this achievement, we also express our appreciation to the residents and stakeholders of east Cork for their continued cooperation and support,” Mr Mahon said.