A landmark year for energy cooperation

The signing of agreements on the Celtic Interconnector in Paris on 25 November 2022 was a landmark moment in bilateral relations between Ireland and France.

This highlights work in sustainable energy as a major area of collaboration in the future.

The technical and financing agreements, allow for construction to begin this year. They were signed in the presence of the Taoiseach Micheál Martin and Ministers Agnès Pannier-Runacher and Eamon Ryan.

Electricity to power 450,000 homes

The cable will run 575 kilometres from the south coast of Ireland to the northwest coast of Brittany. This will facilitate the importation and exportation of enough electricity to power 450,000 homes.

The project is expected to be operational by 2026. It will be Ireland’s first interconnection with mainland Europe, developed by Eirgrid Ireland and RTE France.

Renewable and sustainable energy research

France and Ireland are promoting research collaborations in renewable and sustainable energy and public engagement. Integrating renewables to the grid along with exploration into further interconnection are other areas for cooperation.

Offshore marine planning and grid development

Deepening cooperation in offshore marine planning and grid development between Irish and French energy ministries is ongoing.

Innovation for energy efficiency and sustainability are frequent areas for both partnership and shared learning. The Embassy in Paris, has hosted a number of events to showcase active French and Irish projects. Further potential for collaboration on initiatives such as Smart Cities has been identified.

Discussion has recently expanded to encompass supply chain development, biodiversity, and public engagement.