700 MW
total capacity
1,000 km
length of the cable
Partnership
EirGrid
Partnership
RTE
Market
Subsea interconnection
Location
Ireland
Location
France
Context
In 2022, Nexans has been awarded the contract for the Celtic Interconnector, a groundbreaking project jointly developed by the Irish and French Transmission System Operators, EirGrid and RTE (Réseau de Transport d’Electricité). This project marks a significant milestone as it involves the construction of the world’s longest XLPE interconnector, facilitating direct electricity exchange between France and Ireland for the first time.
Recognized as a Project of Common Interest (PCI) by the European Union, the Celtic Interconnector holds immense importance in the integration of energy systems across Europe. With a capacity of 700 MW, it is poised to supply power to approximately 450,000 homes, contributing significantly to the European energy transition and the achievement of energy policy and climate objectives.
Challenges
The challenges inherent in the Celtic Interconnector project are substantial. Notably, the installation of a 500km subsea cable route, coupled with 40km of underground route in France (Brittany) and 35km in Ireland (Cork County), requires meticulous planning and execution. Additionally, ensuring the highest installation and protection delivery standards poses a significant challenge, especially given the project’s scale and complexity.
Key Figures
700 MW
total capacity
1,000 km
of subsea cables
180 km
of underground cables
Approximately
450K
homes supplied
Nexans implication
Nexans’ involvement in the Celtic Interconnector project is multifaceted and crucial to its success. The company is responsible for manufacturing the cables at its state-of-the-art facilities, including the production of 1,000km of subsea cables in Halden, Norway, and 180km of underground cables in Charleroi, Belgium. The 400 kV HVAC 10km connection to the Irish grid is also part of the project awarded to Nexans. Furthermore, Nexans will manufacture accessories in Cortaillod, Switzerland, and leverage its proven project delivery model and cutting-edge assets, such as the Nexans Aurora Cable Laying Vessel, to ensure the highest installation standards.
A notable aspect of Nexans’ contribution is the implementation of innovative technologies, such as the bundle lay of the two HVDC power cables and a full data capacity repeated fiber optic system. This underscores Nexans’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of technological advancement in the energy sector.
Signing the contract for the Celtic Interconnector further cements Nexans as a major player in renewable energy. We are proud to contribute to such a historic project that works directly with the European Union’s goal of electrical solidarity between Member States. Nexans is leading the way in connecting the parts of the world with the highest renewable energy potential to the parts of the world with the greatest demand for electricity. From energy generation and transmission to distribution and usages, Nexans’ solutions cover the full electrification value chain to ensure electricity can be delivered to all corners of the world securely, reliably, and efficiently.
CEO, Nexans
Expected to be completed and energized by 2026, the Celtic Interconnector represents a significant step forward in Nexans’ journey towards becoming a pure electrification player. By leveraging its expertise and innovative solutions, Nexans is not only advancing the transition to renewable energy but also solidifying its position as a leader in the electrification sector.
