Nexans has concluded the initial cable pull-in in France for the 700MW Celtic Interconnector project, following an earlier operation in Ireland.
This marks a key milestone for one of Europe’s most important cross-border energy infrastructure initiatives.
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The project, developed by French Transmission System Operator (TSO) RTE and its Irish counterpart IEirGrid, will facilitate electricity exchange between the two countries.
This system aims to provide power equivalent to the needs of around 450,000 homes.
EirGrid CFO Michael Behan said: “Reaching this latest milestone on the French side is a significant step forward for the Celtic Interconnector, reflecting strong progress and continued close cooperation between our teams in France and Ireland.”
Nexans conducted the pull-in operation as part of its offshore installation work, aided by cable-laying vessel the Calypso, demonstrating ongoing progress in the project.
The Celtic Interconnector extends roughly 575km from La Martyre in Brittany, France, to East Cork in Ireland.
The interconnector uses 320kV high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology and includes around 500km of offshore high-voltage cable.
It is complemented by approximately 40km of underground cable in France and 35km in Ireland, as well as a 10km, 400kV high-voltage alternating current link to the Irish grid.
Nexans is responsible for the engineering, manufacture and installation of the full cable system.
High-voltage cables are produced in Halden, Norway, with advanced extruded XLPE insulation technology.
Land cables originate from Charleroi in Belgium and accessories are manufactured in Cortaillod, Switzerland.
Nexans PWR-transmission business group EVP Pascal Radue said: “The Celtic Interconnector is a landmark project for European energy infrastructure and a strong example of how interconnections support the electrification of Europe.
“This pull-in operation marks another important step in delivering a project that will strengthen energy resilience and enable greater integration of renewable power across borders.”
The Celtic Interconnector, designated as a Project of Common Interest by the EU, is vital for enhancing Europe’s integrated energy system.
It facilitates greater cross-border electricity flows and aids in the integration of renewable energy sources.
In March last year, Nexans signed a framework agreement with RTE to supply, install and commission 450km of HVDC subsea cables and 280km of HVDC cables for onshore connections.
