Contracts for electricity interconnector to be signed shortly in significant step for project

The cable will allow Ireland and France to export energy between the two countries, adding extra 'layer of security' to energy supply 

An illustration showing the plan for the €1bn subsea Celtic Interconnector between Youghal and Brittany, France.

Contracts are hoped to be signed this month to begin the manufacturing and construction of Ireland’s first European electricity interconnector, connecting Youghal in east Cork to France.

The Celtic Interconnector, a 700MW subsea cable or ‘electricity highway’ which will allow electricity to be exported between Ireland and France adds “another layer of security” to Ireland’s energy supply, said EirGrid's Celtic interconnector project manager, Shane Cooney.