Nexans Advances Celtic Interconnector Cable Project Between Ireland and France
Nexans has reached a major milestone in the Celtic Interconnector project, one of Europe’s most ambitious energy infrastructure initiatives. The next phase of cable deployment began earlier this year, moving the €1.6 billion project closer to its 2028 completion.
Connecting Ireland and France with World’s Longest XLPE Cable
The project will link Ireland’s and France’s electricity grids using the world’s longest XLPE interconnector. The total route spans about 575 kilometers, including 500 kilometers of subsea cable between both countries. The remaining sections run underground, connecting converter stations to national transmission grids in Cork and Brittany.
Subsea installation started in summer 2025 and is expected to finish by the end of this year. This stage marks an essential step toward creating Ireland’s first direct energy link with continental Europe.
Progress Across Land and Sea Construction
The European Union recognizes the Celtic Interconnector as a Project of Common Interest for its role in strengthening cross-border energy security. Nexans won the contract in 2022 to supply and install the cable system.
Construction began in 2023, with steady progress on both land and sea works. Converter stations in Cork County and Brittany are nearing completion. Large sections of underground ducts and transformers have already been delivered and installed.
Project Commissioning and Next Steps
The final commissioning, first scheduled for 2027, has moved to 2028, according to EirGrid, Ireland’s state-owned electricity transmission operator. Despite the delay, major progress continues. Teams are now working off Ireland’s southeast coast on cable-laying and burial operations.
Next steps include system integration, operational testing, trial runs, and certification. Such schedule shifts are typical for complex HVDC subsea projects due to their scale and technical requirements.
EU Support and Strategic Importance
The European Union’s Connecting Europe Facility has co-funded the Celtic Interconnector, granting over €530 million to the project. The investment highlights its strategic value to Europe’s renewable energy future, improving grid stability and promoting energy independence across member states.
