Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 20, EirGrid has taken delivery of four large power transformers for the Celtic Interconnector project, which will establish a direct electricity link between Ireland and France.

The 240-tonne units arrived at Aghada Power Station in County Cork after being shipped from Rotterdam. From there, they were transported by road to the converter station site at Ballyadam. Each transformer required a specialist vehicle nearly 94 metres in length for the final journey.

The transformers will step up voltage from the high-voltage direct current (HVDC) converter to levels compatible with Ireland’s transmission network, enabling the full 700 MW capacity of the interconnector to flow in both directions.

Michael Behan, Chief Financial Officer at EirGrid, stated: “This delivery required meticulous planning, execution and collaboration between multiple teams, contractors and stakeholders.”

He continued: “We thank our contractors, stakeholders, local authorities and An Garda Síochána for ensuring public safety at all times throughout this recent operation.”

He further noted: “Reaching this point in the project is testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, and we look forward to progressing the delivery of this key energy project.”

The Celtic Interconnector is jointly developed by EirGrid and its French counterpart RTE, with co-financing provided through the European Union’s Connecting Europe Facility. Once completed, the 575 km subsea and underground cable will be the first direct energy link between Ireland and continental Europe, enhancing security of supply and supporting the integration of renewable generation on both sides of the connection.

The arrival of the transformers marks a visible milestone in the Irish portion of the project, keeping construction on schedule for commercial operation targeted in 2027.