Eastwest Interconnector

Welcome to the East West Interconnector - Wales website

This site has been developed to provide the latest information on developments taking place with the project in north Wales.

EirGrid is developing the interconnector which will link the electricity transmission networks of Wales and the Republic of Ireland. The project will enable the two way flow of electricity through undersea and underground cables and will bring benefits to people living in Wales and Ireland. These will include:

• The capability of carrying 500 megawatts of electricity in both directions, which is the equivalent of supplying power to around 300,000 homes
• The enhancement of future security of supply for electricity users in Wales and Ireland
• Helping tackle climate change by facilitating the development of further renewable energy sources
• Opening up a new market to renewable energy generated here in Wales
• Helping to drive down the cost of electricity to consumers in Wales and Ireland

The 260km long cables will come ashore at Barkby Beach, Prestatyn. From there they will be laid underground mainly following the route of the A548 until they reach Shotton - where EirGrid has received planning permission to construct a converter station. This is where the electricity is adapted so it is suitable to be used in the local transmission network.

In planning the project, the company has liaised extensively with Denbighshire County Council and Flintshire County Council to ensure disruption to local people and motorists is kept to a minimum.

EirGrid is committed to keeping local people fully informed about the project as it develops. Please click on the relevant tab to find out the latest information about work taking place or planned for your area.

EastWest Interconnector gallery

Select an image from the gallery below to view in a larger format.