Greenlink Interconnector, the company behind the planned 500MW link between Ireland and Wales, has appointed two heavyweights from Irish energy to its board and management committee.
Tim Cowhig, former chief executive of Element Power Ireland and chair of the Irish Wind Energy Association, has been added to the board of directors.
Johnny Shine (pictured), former managing director of Eir Networks and deputy chief executive of ESB, has joined the Greenlink management committee.
Greenlink interim programme director Angus Norman said: “We are delighted to bring on board two more highly-respected figures from the Irish energy sector – Johnny Shine and Tim Cowhig – who have exceptional strategic skills and experience of developing energy infrastructure in Ireland and abroad.
“These appointments follow the arrival in May of new investors, Partners Group, acting on behalf of their clients, and the recent appointment of Padraig McManus.
“It means we have a strong team and a firm financial footing upon which to take the project forward to the key milestones of planning consent and construction.”
Cowhig said: “Having guided numerous renewable energy start-ups to become key industry players, I am extremely excited about joining such an important energy project for Ireland.
“The government’s recent ‘Climate Action Plan’ sets out a welcome vision, with an attainable 70% renewables target and unequivocal endorsement of the need for greater interconnection.
“It shows the value of Greenlink for the Irish energy market and the greater integration of low carbon sources.”
Shine said: “Greenlink is a key infrastructure project that will bring private capital into the Irish energy market, to improve energy security, while supporting regional jobs and supply chain investment.
“In particular it will strengthen the energy industry in delivering greater market integration and value to consumers in Ireland and GB.
“I am therefore delighted to be working with Greenlink’s management team in driving this project forward.”
Greenlink added that “procurement for the major construction contracts on the project are currently well advanced and planning applications are being prepared for submission later this year”.
Construction is expected to take three years with commissioning planned for 2023.