Milestone reached on Celtic Interconnector project
EirGrid, Ireland's TSO, has welcomed the news that essential onshore cable ducting works crossing the beach have been successfully completed on the Celtic Interconnector project at Claycastle Beach, Youghal.
The Celtic Interconnector is a 700MW ±320kV VSC link connecting Ireland and France across the Celtic Sea. The project is progressing apace, with these latest works a key step in preparation for HVDC cable installation later this year.
The works, which took place over the weekend, involved ducting pipes being lifted synchronously to the cofferdam (trench) by five separate cranes, before being lowered into place in the trench. These precision works were carried out between tidal windows at the beach.
This ducting will now be buried using material previously excavated from the beach, ensuring they are ready to receive the marine cable which is to be laid from France and into Irish waters in the next stage of this ambitious project.
Speaking following the successful works, EirGrid Chief Infrastructure Officer Michael Mahon said: “The success of this phase of works is a testament to the expertise and dedication of the entire project team, including engineers, contractors and project partners from both countries. The collaborative efforts of all stakeholders, including local authorities and community representatives have played a crucial role in reaching this milestone."
Meanwhile, works on other aspects of this key energy project move forward, including works at the converter station site at Ballyadam, near Carrigtwohill. Cladding and internal fit outs of buildings mean works are on schedule.
