Moyle Interconnector Capacity Increase

The Project

SONI is the electricity transmission system operator for Northern Ireland.  This means we plan for the future of the electricity grid and operate it every minute of every day. We ensure that everyone has power when they need it at the most economical price possible.

To prepare for a clean energy future, SONI must make the electricity grid stronger and more flexible. The grid will need to carry more power, and most of this power will come from renewable generation that varies depending on the weather.

What will the project involve?

The Moyle Interconnector is a high-voltage direct current (HVDC) link between Scotland and Northern Ireland, running between Auchencrosh in Ayrshire and Ballycronan More in County Antrim. It has been identified that there is a need to increase the capacity and improve the efficiency of the Moyle Interconnector.

SONI’s preliminary preferred option will connect Ballycronan More Converter Station directly to Ballylumford Power Station through two underground circuits

What are the benefits of this project?

  • Strengthen security of supply, helping to meet increasing consumer demand
  • Improve renewable energy integration in Northern Ireland;
  • Increase interconnector capacity between NI and GB;
  • Increase revenue from interconnection which will benefit NI consumers.