Ireland and the UK will increase cooperation in developing offshore renewable energy along with exploring further electricity interconnection opportunities.
Irish Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan and UK Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero Claire Coutinho signed a memorandum of understanding to facilitate increased cooperation on opportunities for further electrical interconnection between the island of Ireland and UK.
The opportunities to be explored will include the feasibility of a joint multipurpose interconnector project.
The MoU will also facilitate increased information-sharing between Ireland and the UK on the transition to renewable energy and deployment of onshore and offshore renewable energy, including renewable and low carbon hydrogen.
Minister Ryan said: “Climate change does not recognise borders so it is vital that we work in collaboration with our closest neighbours when it comes to realising the potential of renewable energy to achieve our climate goals and greater energy security.
“Increased levels of cooperation regarding offshore renewable energy, offshore grids and enhanced interconnection is both productive and timely for Ireland because the UK’s status as the global leader in the development of offshore renewable energy, and Ireland’s considerable offshore renewable resource.
Secretary Coutinho added: “As two nations committed to boosting energy resilience and reaching net zero, today marks a historic moment for the UK and Ireland, as we work more closely together to achieve our shared energy goals.
“The UK continues to lead the world on energy security and reaching net zero, accelerating our deployment of renewables and homegrown supplies of energy, while working in collaboration with international partners to tackle climate change.
“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.”