Irish and Spanish ministries have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore the potential for a future electricity interconnector between the two countries.

The MoU was signed by Ireland’s Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment and Spain’s Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge in Madrid and marks the first step in assessing the feasibility and benefits of an Ireland-Spain interconnection.

“The commitment to study the potential for an Irish-Spanish Interconnector is a significant step for the development of our systems and has the potential to play a key role in helping us to move towards greater European energy independence,” said Cathal Marley, CEO of EirGrid, Irish transmission system operator (TSO).

“Strengthening Ireland’s interconnection with our neighbours is essential to delivering a secure, low‑carbon energy system and to maximising the benefits of renewable energy for consumers across Ireland and Europe.”

EirGrid further noted that the studies to be carried out will also contribute to the European Commission’s vision for a greater level of interconnection between European countries and regions.

“Enhanced electricity interconnection is strategically important in supporting the European Union’s objectives for decarbonisation, energy security, and the effective integration of renewable energy sources,” said Roberto García Merino, CEO at Redeia.

“Redeia looks forward to further engaging with EirGrid, the Spanish Government, and European partners to advance the early-stage feasibility studies in line with the European Union’s interconnection objectives. By connecting our electricity systems, we can support the energy transition and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable power system for Spain, Ireland, and Europe.”

In 2023, the Irish government approved a new policy statement on electricity interconnections that includes exploring new interconnection opportunities with Spain, Belgium, and the Netherlands, as well as further connections to Great Britain and France.

Its key aspects include specifically supporting a further connection to Great Britain by 2030 beyond the completion of the Greenlink interconnector, as well as providing consideration to the second connection with France beyond the Celtic Interconnector, a connection to Spain, a further connection to Great Britain beyond 2030 and a connection to Belgium or the Netherlands.

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