2020
Ireland
EirGrid applied its “Six-step approach to grid development” placing importance on stakeholder engagement, open and transparent communication, and acknowledging the social impact of project assessment and decision-making for the Celtic Interconnector project.
This approach has enhanced the innovation and robustness of project development.
Highlights
01
Consulted communities and key stakeholders early in project development phase
02
Encouraged ongoing community feedback by holding open evenings at several locations and at different times of day and introducing innovative communication methods
03
Ensured open communication of project updates for technical and non-technical audiences
Main Information
The Celtic Interconnector will connect Ireland’s grid with continental Europe for the first time. It is the first large-scale multi-partner project to which EirGrid’s ‘Six-step approach’ was broadly applied. In order to achieve objectives, EirGrid assigned a dedicated Community Liaison Officer as a point-of-contact; created accessible online resources; produced a consultation report after each ‘step’ of the approach and uses results to guide the project; and improved visual communication by utilising virtual 3D modelling. The outcome has been very valuable in the ongoing evaluation, adaptation and revision of the ‘Six-step approach’ which is applied across all projects.
Additional Information
EirGrid is the transmission system operator in Ireland and one of the TSOs leading the project.
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