Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 September 2023
115. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to provide an update on the Celtic Interconnector; and to state if the project is on track to meet the target of a 2026 completion date. [41860/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Celtic Interconnector is a proposed 700 MW electricity interconnector between Brittany and East Cork, promoted and developed by the Irish electricity Transmission System Operator, EirGrid, and its French counterpart, Reseau de Transporte d’Électricite (RTÉ). Upon scheduled completion in 2026, it will represent Ireland’s largest electricity interconnector.
The completion the Celtic Interconnector will result in the return of direct electricity interconnection between Ireland and the EU Internal Energy Market, as well as enhanced market competition and security of electricity supply, to the benefit of Irish and French electricity customers.
The project remains on target for energisation in 2026 with takeover planned for March 2027. Construction activity has commenced in France with a planned construction start date in Ireland before the end of this year. Cable manufacturing timelines remain as per contracted timeframes and some marine survey works have been undertaken this year by the cable contractor.
