Celtic Interconnector

The Celtic Interconnector, due to be energised in 2026 offers huge potential for renewables development across the southern part of Ireland.

In November 2022, key agreements were signed between Eirgrid and Réseau de Transport d’Electricité for the realisation of the Celtic Interconnector between Cork in Ireland and Finistère (Brittany) in France.

Solar Panels, County Cork, Ireland — County Cork, Ireland – terminus of the Celtic Interconnector

If you board the Cork-Roscoff ferry you will certainly traverse the route of this planned new undersea cable.

This will be Ireland’s first electricity interconnection with mainland Europe and heralds an exciting new phase in our national grid development.

The expectation is that – when completed – the 700 MW High Voltage connection will facilitate Ireland’s access to the European ‘Supergrid‘ and also theoretically facilitate European access to Ireland’s planned renewables industry.

Contracts were also issued to the two major contractors on the project Siemens Energy who are building the converter stations, and Nexans who will design and install the 575km cable.

Finistere, France — Finistère, France – terminus of the Celtic Interconnector

Connecting Europe Fund (CEF)

The Celtic Interconnector project was due to cost €800 million (estimates up to €1.7 Bn have been noted), and is significantly funded by the EU through it’s Connecting Europe Fund (CEF) as it has been designated a Project of Common Interest (PCI).

According to the Eirgrid press release, €530.7 million is coming from the Connecting Europe Fund (CEF) as cross-border electricity interconnectors are deemed “essential to deliver climate and energy goals” according to the European Investment Bank.

Cork-Rostoff Ferry Celtic Interconnector — Travel the Cork-Rostoff Ferry – you are sure to traverse the Celtic Interconnector

Solar Farm Potential

Landowners in County Cork, and the adjacent counties should consider whether their land is suitable for dual use – as both food producing and energy producing land.