- The offshore renewable energy project further links the countries, strengthening the surplus export of renewable electricity and the security of supply for fossil gas.
- Ireland is working on an interconnector with France, while the UK is working on an interconnector with the Netherlands.
Ireland and the United Kingdom have signed two memorandums of understanding (MoU) to increase cooperation in developing offshore renewable energy. According to the Irish government, the agreement explores further electricity interconnection opportunities and enhances the security of gas supplies.
The MoUs were signed during the British-Irish Energy Day by the Irish climate minister, Eamon Ryan, and the British secretary of state for energy security, Claire Coutinho. Ryan stated that this agreement highlights the benefits of enhanced interconnection. This includes increased security of supply, improved wholesale market competition and the possibility to export surplus renewable electricity during oversupply periods.
In her remarks, Coutinho said, “Today’s landmark agreements will see us deepen our energy partnership with Ireland to deliver cheaper, cleaner and more secure energy to our homes and businesses and grow our economies. The UK continues to lead the world on energy security and reaching net zero, accelerating our deployment of renewables and homegrown energy supplies while collaborating with international partners to tackle climate change.”
The UK and Ireland are already closely linked regarding their energy supply. An electricity interconnector that runs under the Irish Sea and gas pipelines connects the two countries. The agreement further links the countries and would strengthen the security of supplying fossil gas. Also, more electricity interconnection could help lower prices and balance the grid. In addition, the two countries would work on information-sharing to drive forward the green transition, including low-carbon and renewable hydrogen.
“Climate change does not recognise borders, so it is vital we collaborate with our closest neighbours when it comes to realising the potential of renewable energy to achieve our climate goals and greater energy security. In future, most of our energy needs will be met by renewable electricity. But as we transition, natural gas will play a crucial backup role in Ireland’s energy system,” the Irish climate minister added.
Ireland is working on an interconnector with France to deepen its energy ties with other countries, while the UK is working on an interconnector with the Netherlands.