Minister O’Brien signs two Memorandums of Understanding at WindEurope – with UK and Spain
Framework established with Spain to explore the development of an electricity interconnector
Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien has signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on energy cooperation at the WindEurope conference in Madrid, reinforcing Ireland’s commitment to strengthening regional collaboration and accelerating the transition to a clean, secure energy system.
MoU between Ireland and Spain
The first MoU, agreed with the Government of Spain, was signed alongside Sara Aagesen Muñoz, Minister for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge. This agreement establishes a framework for both countries to explore the potential development of a future electricity interconnector between Ireland and Spain.
The MoU reflects a shared ambition to enhance electricity interconnection across Europe, recognising its importance in supporting decarbonisation, strengthening energy security, and enabling the integration of renewable energy sources. It sets out a structured, step-by-step approach to assessing the feasibility of an interconnector project, including cooperation between both countries’ transmission system operators (TSOs), joint analysis of technical and economic considerations, and potential future engagement with European network planning processes.
MoU between Ireland and the UK
Minister O’Brien also signed a second MoU with the United Kingdom, together with UK Energy Minister Michael Shanks. This agreement extends the existing Ireland-UK Memorandum of Understanding on energy transition, which is due to expire in June 2026.
The extension reaffirms the strong and ongoing cooperation between Ireland and the UK in the energy sector, particularly in areas such as offshore renewable energy, electricity markets, and security of supply. It ensures continuity in collaborative efforts as both countries work towards shared climate and energy objectives.
Ireland’s upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union
Both agreements come at a pivotal time as Ireland prepares to assume the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2026. During the Presidency, Ireland will progress a number of key legislative files, including the European Grids Package, which aims to support the delivery of a cleaner, more secure and more affordable energy system across Europe.
Speaking at the signing, Minister O’Brien said: 'These agreements underline Ireland’s commitment to working closely with our European partners to deliver a secure, sustainable and resilient energy future. Our cooperation with Spain opens up new possibilities for interconnection that could unlock significant renewable energy potential, while our continued partnership with the UK remains vital to maintaining stability and progress across our shared energy systems. As Ireland prepares for its EU Presidency, we are determined to play a leading role in progressing key European initiatives such as the European Grids Package, helping to build the infrastructure needed to deliver clean, affordable energy for citizens and businesses across Europe. The signing of these MoUs at WindEurope highlights Ireland’s proactive role in advancing regional energy cooperation and supporting the development of a more integrated and decarbonised European energy market.'
