THE export capacity of the Moyle Interconnector, which links the electricity markets of Britain and the all-Ireland Single Electricity Market, has increased to 270 megawatts, allowing more wind generated power on to the system and available to export ahead of the winter months.
The interconnector, owned and operated by Mutual Energy, is a high-voltage direct-current link running from Ballycronan More in Co Antrim to Auchencrosh in Scotland.
It now has a technical capacity of 500 megawatts in each direction, though limits applied by Transmission System Operators (TSOs) at either end of the link mean this full capacity is not made available for trade between the two markets.
But as a result of ongoing engagement between Mutual Energy and stakeholders to maximise capacity, at least 270 megawatts is now made available every day for exports from Moyle.
Paddy Larkin, chief executive at Mutual Energy, said: “By boosting firm capacity on the interconnector, the curtailment of wind generated power can be reduced, a positive step as the industry seeks to further decarbonise.
“The increased capacity also means excess renewable power can be traded with the GB market. Over the coming year, we will be working hard to boost capacity further by continuing our close partnership with the TSOs and through technological advancements and improvements.”
Steven Agnew, head of RenewableNI, said: “Measures like this show how the industry can work together to achieve decarbonisation.
“Northern Ireland generates almost half of its electricity from renewables and it’s essential we ensure curtailment is kept to a minimal. This additional capacity helps keep wind power on the system and available to others.”
