The Celtic Interconnector project is a technically demanding construction project aimed at connecting the power grids of Ireland and France via a 575 km high-voltage submarine cable. This ambitious infrastructure project is designed to facilitate cross-border power supply and contribute to European climate targets. Cables are being installed from the south coast of Ireland to the northwest coast of France, requiring complex installation requirements and strict adherence to EirGrid specifications. In Ireland, the cables are protected by the egeplast Power Protect PE-RT protection pipe system.
egeplast, Sorensen Civil Engineering Ltd., and Nexans are the main parties involved, with egeplast manufacturing the conduits, Sorensen Civil Engineering Ltd. handling civil engineering, earthworks, and installation in Ireland, and Nexans serving as the main contractor for the supply and installation of cables in both Ireland and France.
Brian Snow, Operations Director at Sorensen Civil Engineering Ltd., evaluates the project’s progress positively and highlights both the collaboration with egeplast and Nexans as well as the progress the team has achieved despite challenging conditions.
Upon completion, it will contribute to a more secure and sustainable power supply and will be Ireland’s only direct energy connection to an EU member state. Installation of the 42 km pipeline began in autumn 2023. Despite challenging weather conditions to date, our experienced team is making excellent progress. This impressively demonstrates our commitment and competence in handling complex large-scale projects. It has been a pleasure to work with our pipe supplier egeplast on behalf of Nexans and EirGrid to realize this milestone project.” Brian Snow, Operations Director at Sorensen Civil Engineering Ltd.
Challenges and Solutions
From a logistical perspective, the Celtic Interconnector project was a complex undertaking, as transport from Germany and subsequent installation of the pipes required precise planning. Through the detailed planned provision of 6 m PE-RT pipes in SDR 21 by egeplast, both transport and installation could be implemented efficiently. The development of special push-fit couplings and electrofusion couplings in collaboration with various manufacturers was another example of the particular need for detailed specifications that characterized this project. Sorensen Civil Engineering Ltd.’s involvement in quality control and project management also contributed significantly to meeting the extensive and complex requirements of the project.
Pipes and Pipe Installation
The project utilized egeplast Power Protect PE-RT conduits in various sizes (OD 63, OD 125, OD 225, OD 250) to accommodate different cable types. The pipes in SDR 21 and SDR 11 classifications were connected using push-fit and electrofusion fittings. Specially trained welders ensured compliance with standard EN13067:2020, demonstrating their commitment to EirGrid’s requirements.
Project data
Project Description
Installation of a 575 km high-voltage submarine cable to connect Ireland and France
Challenges
complex installation processes and compliance with strict EirGrid specifications
Solution
Use of egeplast Power Protect PE-RT cable protection conduit systems
Installation
Open Trench Installation
Pipe System
egeplast Power Protect PE-RT cable protection conduit system in various sizes (OD 63, OD 125, OD 225, OD 250), SDR 21 and SDR 11, various fittings
Project Participants
CIDAC, a joint venture between EirGrid / RTE, state transmission system operator in Ireland / France);
Nexans (cable supplier / main contractor);
Sorensen Civil Engineering Ltd. (duct installer / construction contractor for EirGrid, Ireland)
Source: Sustainability
