2020
EirGrid
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.
Objectives:
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.