Construction Contracts for MaresConnect 750MW Electricity Interconnector Between Wales and Ireland

The MaresConnect Project is a major infrastructure initiative to build a 750 MW, 320 kV High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) electricity interconnector connecting Denbighshire, Wales with North County Dublin, Ireland. The project will be delivered through a joint venture between Foresight Group Holdings Ltd and Etchea Energy Nominees Ltd. The interconnector will consist of approximately 240 km of subsea and underground cables linking new converter stations on each side, using advanced Voltage Source Converter (VSC) technology with a Symmetrical Monopole configuration operating at +/-320 kV. The bidirectional link will strengthen electricity supply security, improve market integration, and increase renewable energy sharing between Irish and British electricity grids. Procurement is organized into four separate EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) turnkey contracts: LOT 1A covers two HVDC Converter Stations; LOT 1B covers one Irish 400kV AC Tail Substation; LOT 2A covers HVDC subsea and underground cables plus HVAC cables in Wales (Bodelwyddan); and LOT 2B covers HVAC cable supply and installation in Ireland (Dublin). All contracts will use the amended FIDIC Conditions of Contract for EPC/Turnkey Projects (Silver Book) model. MaresConnect has completed preliminary market engagement and actively encourages partnerships between Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Construction Contractors to finalize bidding arrangements before the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire phase.