The Celtic Interconnector project is a technically demanding construction project aiming to connect the power grids of Ireland and France via a 575 km high-voltage subsea cable. This ambitious infrastructure project is intended to facilitate cross-border power supply and contribute to European climate goals. 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 participants, with egeplast manufacturing the protection pipes, Sorensen Civil Engineering Ltd. handling the civil engineering, earthworks, and installation in Ireland, and Nexans acting as the main contractor for the supply and installation of the cables in both Ireland and France.
Brian Snow, Operations Director at Sorensen Civil Engineering Ltd., assesses the project’s progress positively, highlighting the cooperation with egeplast and Nexans as well as the progress the team has achieved despite difficult conditions.
Once completed, it will contribute to a more secure and sustainable electricity supply and will be Ireland’s only direct energy link to an EU member state. The installation of the 42 km pipeline began in autumn 2023. Despite the difficult weather conditions to date, our experienced team is making excellent progress. This impressively demonstrates our commitment and expertise 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 the transport from Germany and the subsequent Installation of the pipes had to be precisely planned. Through the meticulously planned provision of 6m long PE-RT pipes in SDR 21 by egeplast, both transport and Installation could be implemented efficiently. The development of special push-fit sockets and electrofusion couplers 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 played a crucial role in meeting the extensive and complex requirements of the project.
Pipes and Pipe Laying
The project utilized egeplast Power Protect PE-RT protection pipes 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, thereby demonstrating their commitment to EirGrid’s requirements.
Project Data
Project description
Installation of a 575 km high-voltage subsea cable connecting Ireland and France
Challenges
Complex laying processes and adherence to strict EirGrid specifications
Solution
Use of egeplast Power Protect PE-RT cable protection pipe systems
Installation
Open Trench Installation
Pipe system
egeplast Power Protect PE-RT cable protection pipe 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 / contractor for EirGrid, Ireland)
