Nexans Completes Celtic Interconnector Cable Pull in France
Nexans has completed the first cable pull-in in France for the Celtic Interconnector project. This key milestone facilitates the connection of Ireland's electricity grid to the European continent.
Nexans announced the successful completion of the first cable pull-in operation in France for the Celtic Interconnector project. This marks a significant execution milestone for one of Europe's key cross-border energy infrastructure initiatives, following a similar operation in Ireland.
The Celtic Interconnector, jointly developed by French operator RTE and Irish operator EirGrid, aims to establish the first direct electricity link between the European continent and Ireland. With a planned capacity of 700 MW, the project will enable electricity exchange, capable of powering approximately 450,000 homes.
The operation was carried out by Nexans using its cable-laying vessel, Calypso. The interconnector spans approximately 575 km between La Martyre in Brittany, France, and East Cork, Ireland. The system utilizes 320 kV HVDC technology, comprising roughly 500 km of offshore high-voltage cable, supplemented by approximately 40 km of underground cable in France and 35 km in Ireland.
Nexans is responsible for the engineering, manufacturing, and installation of the entire cable system. Recognized by the European Union as a Project of Common Interest (PCI), the Celtic Interconnector is intended to enhance energy system integration, facilitate greater cross-border electricity flows, and support the incorporation of renewable energy sources.