The Greenlink HVDC interconnector is set to become a key energy bridge between Ireland and the UK, delivering 500 MW of cross-border capacity through a €500 million investment. Scheduled for completion in 2025/26, the project enhances security of supply, supports renewable integration, and strengthens EU–UK electricity trade. While the project itself is privately financed, listed suppliers Nexans and Siemens Energy provide investors with indirect exposure to this strategic infrastructure build.
Quick Summary
- The Greenlink HVDC interconnector links Ireland and the UK with a 500 MW capacity.
- Expected completion: 2025/26, with a ~€500m investment.
- Companies involved: Nexans (EPA: NEX) and Siemens Energy (ETR: ENR).
- Strategic importance: strengthens EU–UK electricity trade and renewable integration.
- Investors gain exposure via listed suppliers, not direct project ownership.
Project Overview
The Greenlink HVDC project is a submarine and underground electricity interconnector linking County Wexford (Ireland) with Pembrokeshire (Wales, UK).
- Capacity: 500 MW
- Voltage: ±320 kV HVDC
- Length: ~190 km (submarine + onshore sections)
- Investment size: ~€500 million
- Stage (2025): Under construction, targeted completion 2025/26
- Ownership: Greenlink Interconnector Ltd (backed by infrastructure investors)
Project Facts Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 500 MW |
| Voltage | ±320 kV |
| Length | ~190 km |
| Investment Size | ~€500m |
| Stage (2025) | Construction |
| Completion | 2025/26 |
| Companies | Nexans (EPA: NEX), Siemens Energy (ETR: ENR) |
Why It Matters
- Security of supply: Reduces Ireland’s reliance on gas and enhances interconnection with the UK grid.
- Renewable integration: Facilitates export/import of wind power, balancing fluctuations.
- EU strategic priority: Enhances cross-border energy resilience.
- Carbon reduction: Supports Ireland’s renewable targets and EU decarbonization goals.
Companies Involved
- Nexans (EPA: NEX): Providing submarine HVDC cables.
- Siemens Energy (ETR: ENR): Delivering converter stations and HVDC technology.
Both are listed companies, giving investors indirect exposure to the project.
Investor Angle
- Indirect exposure only: The Greenlink project is privately financed, but suppliers are listed.
- Nexans: Project adds to subsea cable backlog; benefits from Europe’s interconnector pipeline.
- Siemens Energy: Strengthens HVDC orderbook visibility, alongside projects like Soo Green and Ultranet.
- Risk factors: Cost overruns, permitting delays, and construction risks common to HVDC projects.
FAQ
Q: What is the Greenlink HVDC project?
It is a 500 MW, ~190 km submarine interconnector linking Ireland and the UK, under construction as of 2025.
Q: When will the Greenlink HVDC project be completed?
Target completion is 2025/26.
Q: Which companies are involved in Greenlink HVDC?
Nexans (submarine cables) and Siemens Energy (converter stations).
Q: How much does the project cost?
The estimated investment is around €500 million.
Q: Can investors gain direct exposure?
No, the project is privately financed, but investors can gain indirect exposure via listed suppliers like Nexans and Siemens Energy.