Sumitomo Electric Industries has completed the Greenlink interconnector, an infrastructure project that establishes a high-voltage direct current (HVDC) and fibre optic connection between Ireland and Wales.

The recently achieved milestone marks the successful conclusion of all testing, commissioning, and handover of the cable system to Siemens Energy, a consortium partner.

The Greenlink Interconnector Project, spearheaded by Greenlink Interconnector company, utilises Sumitomo Electric’s advanced HVDC cross-linked polyethylene cables.

These cables are essential for the submarine and underground electricity interconnection that links the existing electricity grids of Ireland and the UK.

The trial phase for the interconnector is scheduled to begin in the next few months.

The project involved the manufacture and installation of onshore HVDC cables across a 24km route in Ireland and a 6km route in Wales, as well as submarine cables along a 160km offshore route.

The establishment of the Greenlink will provide a new grid connection between Great Island in County Wexford, Ireland, and Pembrokeshire in Wales.

This interconnector is designed to facilitate electricity flows in either direction, responding dynamically to the fluctuating supply and demand in each country.

Greenlink chief executive James O’Reilly said: “Greenlink is immensely pleased that Sumitomo Electric has completed all onshore and offshore HVDC cable installation work ahead of schedule.

“We eagerly look forward to the successful testing and commissioning of the project later this year.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sumitomo Electric and their subcontractors for their outstanding contributions to the Greenlink project.”

In June this year, German transmission system operator Amprion selected Sumitomo Electric to supply HVDC cables for two projects, which together are worth more than €3bn.

Sumitomo Electric will produce the cables in Germany by acquiring a 90% stake in Südkabel, a local cable manufacturer currently owned by the Wilms Group. The deal will close conclude in October 2024.