Construction of the Celtic Interconnector, a high-voltage subsea link connecting Ireland and France, has surpassed its two-year mark, project partners EirGrid and Réseau de Transport d'Électricité (RTE) have reported. Co-financed by the EU’s Connecting Europe Facility, the interconnector is set to enable the exchange of 700 MW of electricity—enough to power 450,000 homes—supporting both national and European renewable energy objectives.

EirGrid notes that over 60 per cent of the high-voltage direct current (HVDC) cables have now been installed onshore in Ireland, alongside the first 84 kilometres of marine cable. 

Recent deliveries also include four 240-tonne transformers critical to the project’s high-capacity electricity transfer. Milestones were presented at PCI Energy Days in Brussels, where officials briefed EU representatives on progress and upcoming phases.

The project continues to prioritise community engagement. More than €1.6 million has been awarded through the Celtic Interconnector Community Benefit Fund, supporting local organisations and not-for-profits in east Cork, with €830,000 disbursed in the second phase this year alone. 

EirGrid chief financial officer Michael Behan emphasised the importance of collaboration among contractors, partners, and local communities in driving the project forward, noting that further milestones are expected in 2026.

Upon completion, the Celtic Interconnector will strengthen energy security, facilitate cross-border renewable energy integration, and provide Ireland with direct access to European electricity markets. Its development marks a significant step in transitioning to a cleaner, more resilient energy system while demonstrating the value of international cooperation and infrastructure investment in delivering large-scale, low-carbon energy solutions.

Read the full article to explore the latest progress on the Celtic Interconnector and its impact on Ireland’s renewable energy landscape.