Celtic Interconnector

Celtic Interconnector is a proposed 700 MW HVDC submarine power cable between the southern coast of Ireland and the north-west coast of France.
If built, it will be the first interconnector between the two countries.
Route.
The cable with run between the Knockraha substation in Cork to the La Martyre substation in Finistère. 
Of its total length of 575 km, 500 km would pass through Irish, British and French waters of the Celtic Sea.
Technical specification.
The electrical interconnector would be the first between the two countries, has an expected cost of €1bn and a planned capacity of 700 MW i.e. an annual transmission capacity of 6.1 TWh.
The project also includes plans for a direct fibre optic communications link between Ireland and France.
Project promoters.
The project is a cooperation between the Irish transmission system operator (TSO) EirGrid and French TSO Réseau de Transport d'Électricité (RTE) for the purpose of improving security of supply, reducing consumer electricity costs and supporting the development of renewable energy.
Project history.
In May 2018 the project was granted a Foreshore License to begin marine surveys for the potential landing sites at Ballinwilling, Claycastle and Redbarn Beaches, County Cork.
The project has been given preliminary approval for European Investment Bank funding as part of preparations by Ireland for Brexit, for €530 million. The project has been designated a European Project of Common Interest as part of the European Super Grid.
In July 2016 after completion of a feasibility study the two countries agreed to proceed with a two-year planning phase.
Three potential landing sites on the Cork coast were identified and six locations (Ballyadam, Leamlara, Knockraha, Pigeon Hill, Kilquane and Ballyvatta) were under consideration for the HVDC converter station.
Current status.
The current planning phase includes an economic assessment, environmental considerations and will determine the placement of the cable and onshore stations, while a decision initially due on the project is foreseen for 2020 or 2021. However, due to the potential impact of Brexit on electricity trading over the existing Ireland - UK HVDC interconnectors, planning for the Celtic Interconnector has accelerated in recent years. A planning application for the Irish landing site and converter station is expected by summer 2020.
The cable is expected to be operational by 2025.