EirGrid is spearheading Ireland's renewable energy transition with projects like the Celtic Interconnector, a groundbreaking link between Ireland and France. Just days before the Interceltic Business Forum, we spoke with Pádraig Slyne to discuss these transformative initiatives.
EirGrid is at the heart of Ireland’s transition to a low-carbon future. As the driving force behind critical projects like the Celtic Interconnector—an ambitious initiative linking the electricity grids of Ireland and France—EirGrid is shaping the energy landscape of tomorrow.
At the upcoming Interceltic Business Forum in Lorient, Pádraig Slyne, Head of Public Affairs at EirGrid, will be one of the key speakers, offering valuable insights into how these projects are not only transforming energy systems but also strengthening ties between Celtic nations.
We had the chance to catch up with him just a few days before the forum, where he shared insights into these groundbreaking initiatives and the broader implications for Ireland's energy landscape.
EirGrid is the electricity Transmission System Operator (TSO) for Ireland.
As Transmission System Operator, EirGrid manages the flow of power on the electricity grid, moving high-voltage electricity around the country, from where it is produced to where it is used, supplying large energy users and the distribution network that powers homes and businesses.
We plan for the future too and are leading the transition to a low-carbon future by making Ireland’s grid renewable ready.
The Celtic Interconnector project will create an electrical interconnection between France and Ireland to allow the exchange of electricity between the two countries. It is being developed by EirGrid, the State-owned electricity transmission system operator in Ireland, and its French counterpart, RTÉ France (Réseau de Transport d’Électricité).
When developed, it will be Ireland’s first direct electricity interconnection with continental Europe.
This 500-kilometre underwater electricity cable between Cork, Ireland and Brittany began construction in November 2023 and when delivered, the connection will allow the exchange of 700MW of electricity between the two countries, the equivalent of powering 450,000 homes.
The connection will link the electricity substation located in Knockraha near Midleton in Cork to the substation in Ar Merzher near Landerneaau in Finistère.
On completion, the Celtic Interconnector will be one of the world’s longest interconnectors to be built using XLPE (cross linked polyethylene) submarine cable technology.
Recognised as a Project of Common Interest (PCI) by the European Union, the Celtic Interconnector project responds to European challenges regarding energy transition and addresses climate change by facilitating progress towards a low-carbon electricity mix.
Construction is well under way on the cable in both countries, and, when fully operational in 2027, will enhance the resilience and efficiency of the power systems in both jurisdictions.
The renewable energy transition, and the interconnection of electricity systems central to this transition, is providing a new dynamic of linking the Celtic nations.
Along with the Celtic Interconnector linking Ireland and Brittany, EirGrid own and operate an interconnector between Dublin and North Wales. We, along with other private enterprises are looking to develop new links between the electricity system of Ireland with both Scotland and Wales.
Indeed, in June this year, the Energy Ministers of Scotland and Ireland met to discuss further areas of collaboration, and EirGrid are proud to support of areas where Celtic neighbours can deepen relationships while decarbonising our energy sources.
EirGrid, along with the Irish Government, recognise that France is now Ireland’s nearest EU neighbour. We have seen huge collegiality from our French counterparts over the last number of years, and this is epitomised in the Celtic Interconnector.
Large bodies of water are now viewed as an impediment to communication, but our Celtic forefathers would have viewed them very differently. Hence the commonality of our Celtic languages and musical heritage. Through this piece of infrastructure, we are not only physically connecting but also restoring an ancient linkage that our nations would shared through the Celtic Sea [Irish: An Mhuir Cheilteach, Breton: Ar Mor Keltiek, French: La mer Celtique].
The Interceltic Business Forum gives us an opportunity and forum for us to share details of this key project, and to emphasise how the Celtic project can encourage more tangible and real business relationships between Ireland and Brittany.
As we look forward to the Interceltic Business Forum, the insights and opportunities shared by speakers like Padraig are invaluable for driving economic growth and collaboration among the Celtic nations.
Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this dynamic event. Join us on August 12th in Lorient to network, learn, and help shape the future of our interconnected economies.
Sign up now and be a part of this exciting journey!
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