First planning applications submitted in Ireland & Wales for Greenlink electricity interconnector

Public consultation is beginning following submission by Greenlink Interconnector Limited of planning applications for the project’s marine components on both sides of the Irish Sea. In Ireland, a Foreshore Licence application has been submitted to the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government (DHPLG)’s Foreshore Unit. In Wales, a Marine Licence application has been submitted to Natural Resources Wales.

Both planning applications are for the offshore aspect of the project and there will be separate applications and consultation processes for the onshore works in County Wexford and Pembrokeshire, where the cables come ashore.

The Greenlink interconnector will connect the electricity grids of Great Britain and Ireland. It is one of Europe’s most important energy infrastructure projects and brings benefits on both sides of the Irish Sea for energy security, jobs and the cost-effective integration of low carbon energy.

Procurement for the major construction contracts is currently under way and agreements have now been signed for connecting to the grid in Ireland and Wales, with EirGrid and National Grid respectively. The project is expected to have a three-year construction programme before commissioning in 2023.