Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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630. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the extent to which electricity is exchanged North, South and east, west; the extent to which alterative international grid options are likely in the aftermath of Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37860/18]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
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631. To ask the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment the position regarding electricity interconnectors North, South, east and west; the individual capacity of each; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37861/18]

Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 630 and 631 together.

Ireland’s energy policy emphasises the important role of interconnection in the transition to a low carbon energy future. One of the key requirements identified in the 2015 Energy White Paper is the need for appropriate energy infrastructure, including energy networks and interconnection with other countries’ energy systems. Ireland has two interconnectors currently in place – a North-South interconnector limited to 300 MW capacity , linking the electricity systems of Ireland and Northern Ireland and the 500 MW East-West Interconnector connecting Ireland and Wales. A second North-South interconnector, at 1500MW capacity, is currently planned to further support the All-Island Single Electricity Market. Northern Ireland is also connected to Scotland via the 500 MW Moyle Interconnector.

Factual data in relation to the exchange of electricity – the import and export of power - is most readily viewed using the EirGrid smart grid dashboard available at this website .

Two other electricity interconnector projects are currently proposed. The 700 MW Celtic Interconnector proposes to link Ireland and France and the 500 MW Greenlink interconnector proposes to link Ireland and Wales.

In the aftermath of Brexit, it is anticipated that the efficient trading on cross-border subsea interconnectors will continue, although this is subject to close monitoring by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities and the relevant system operators in light of developing negotiations at European level. The development of further interconnection to the Continent will enhance our integration in the EU electricity market. For example, if the Celtic Interconnector is constructed it will provide a clear diversification of our connectivity and provide additional security of supply.