Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 16 April 2026
116. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if the Celtic Interconnector is on track to be operational by Spring 2028; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27323/26]
View answerAs Minister, I have no role in respect of the delivery of offshore electricity grid infrastructure. The Celtic Interconnector is a project being undertaken by EirGrid, as Transmission System Operator. Queries on updates on the project are a matter for EirGrid. EirGrid are independent of the Minister in the exercise of their functions. Planning and developing the electricity grid are functions which are assigned to EirGrid as Transmission System Operator. EirGrid are overseen by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities www.cru.ie/regulations-policy/licences/electricity-interconnectors/which is an independent regulator, accountable to a Committee of the Oireachtas and not I as Minister.
EirGrid have a contact email address for Deputies (oireachtas@eirgrid.com) through which Deputies can seek updates such as that sought in this query.
While I have no role in physically delivering Interconnector infrastructure, ensuring that delivery takes place is a priority for this Government as is evident in the Programme for Government.
Electricity interconnection will play a central role in Ireland’s journey to Net Zero transition. Increased interconnectivity is needed to enable our renewable energy ambitions and improve collective security of supply.
Irelands Interconnection ambitions are well set out in the www.gov.ie/en/publication/3d96f-national-policy-statement-on-electricity-connection-2023/ published in 2023.
