A Major Step Towards Energy Interconnection

Despite a somewhat overcast morning in Brittany, the ambitious Celtic Interconnector project continues its steady progress. This critically important undertaking,initiated in 2017,aims to establish a robust energy link between France and Ireland. The project involves laying an extensive underground cable network, stretching 575 kilometers, with the goal of sharing an estimated 700 megawatts of electricity production between the two nations.

On-the-Ground Progress in Brittany

Currently, construction is actively underway in areas between Cléder and Martyr (Finistère). In Sibiril, work is also progressing, albeit with some disruption to access to the Port Neuf coastal area. One particularly delicate operation involved directional drilling, as erwann Ducassou from the Gendry group explained:

We have created a drilling directed 126 m long and nine meters deep, which will allow the cables to be passed under a stream.

Local businesses are heavily involved in this large-scale project, which has a budget of €1.6 billion. According to RTE consultation manager Bertrand Hévin, the project remains on schedule:

So far, the calendar is respected. We have already completed 40 % of the work on this land link on the French side. The unwinding of the cables will continue until the fall of 2026,before a test phase scheduled for the start of 2027. But meanwhile, the underwater part between France and Ireland, 500 km long, can move forward at a good pace. Which also depends on climatic conditions …

Hévin emphasizes that while significant progress has been made, the project’s ultimate success is not yet guaranteed, particularly concerning the underwater segment, which is subject to weather conditions.

The Broader European context and Energy transition

The Celtic Interconnector is designed to bolster the energy capacity of both France and Ireland, perhaps serving the equivalent of 450,000 households. This initiative aligns with broader European efforts to enhance energy security and promote renewable energy sources. As the European Union strives to meet its ambitious climate goals, projects like the Celtic Interconnector play a crucial role in facilitating the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. Such as, the EU aims to achieve a 42.5% share of renewable energy by 2030, with aspirations to reach 45%. Interconnection projects are vital for distributing renewable energy across borders, ensuring a stable and reliable supply.

Distinguishing from Local Energy Solutions

Hévin is keen to differentiate the Celtic Interconnector from projects focused solely on regional energy autonomy, such as the Landivisiau gas combined cycle power plant. He clarifies:

In our case, it is a question of enriching the European electrical network, for the sake of energy transition, and not of strengthening the autonomy of Brittany alone, as in Landivisiau. These are two very different things.

While distinct in their objectives, both types of projects contribute to a more resilient and diversified energy landscape.

looking Ahead: A Future Powered by Interconnection

The Celtic Interconnector represents a significant investment in Europe’s energy infrastructure. By fostering greater collaboration and resource sharing between member states, projects like this pave the way for a more secure, sustainable, and interconnected energy future. as Europe continues to prioritize the energy transition, expect to see more initiatives aimed at strengthening cross-border energy links and promoting the widespread adoption of renewable energy technologies. other similar projects are underway, including one in the Gulf of Gascogne between France and Spain, highlighting the growing trend of energy interconnection within the EU.