Genesal strengthens backup power infrastructure for the Ireland–France grid interconnection

European energy security takes another step forward with the first submarine electrical link between Ireland and France. Stretching over nearly 575 kilometres (500 km under the sea) and with a capacity of 700 MW, this project will enable bidirectional energy exchange between the two countries, reinforcing grid stability, the integration of renewable energy—particularly offshore wind—and competition in electricity markets.

Genesal Energy has taken part in this major submarine interconnection project supplying two generator sets designed to ensure continuous power availability under any operating scenario.

Backup power for a strategic infrastructure

The first unit, a 1,100 kVA main generator set, is responsible for supplying the highest-demand auxiliary loads and providing power during start-up phases or in the event of grid failure. Its role is essential to maintaining system operability at all times, even in the face of unforeseen incidents or disconnections from the main grid.

The secondary 137 kVA generator set is dedicated to supporting control systems, safety systems, emergency lighting and critical communications. Thanks to its design and rapid response capability, it ensures that the most sensitive equipment within the installation continues to operate with total reliability.

The mission of both units is to secure the operational resilience of the system. In extreme situations or grid interruptions, the generator sets supply power to control, protection and communication equipment, ensuring service continuity while preventing damage to the infrastructure.

Engineering tailored to the most demanding conditions

The client required reliable auxiliary power for control, SCADA, cooling, ventilation and pumping systems, as well as black-start capability to support the converters even when the AC grid is unavailable.

The Genesal Energy engineering team designed two fully customised soundproofed generator sets, optimising every element to adapt to the project’s constraints in terms of space, safety and operation.

One of the main challenges was integrating load banks inside the generator sets, which required redesigning the electrical cabinets and optimising the internal layout of the container. Internal double-wall fuel tanks were also designed with leak detection systems and bunded trays, guaranteeing maximum environmental protection.

In addition, the units incorporate air conditioning, panic locks, anchoring plates and structural reinforcement elements, among other customised components developed to meet the project’s stringent standards.

Key features of the GEN1100YC

• Separate Power Cabinets and Control Cabinet integrated into an independent electrical room inside the soundproof container.
• 400 kW load bank integrated into a dedicated room inside the same soundproof container.
• Coolant recirculation and heating system for optimal start-up.
• Air conditioning in the control room.
• C5H (RAL 7035) surface treatment according to ISO 12944 for maximum resistance in industrial and coastal environments.
• 900 L double-wall baseframe fuel tank with liquid collection system.
• External above-ground double-wall 5,000 L steel tank painted to match the generator container.
• Automatic fuel transfer system with double-wall piping and leak detection via vacuum console.
• Independent leak detection for: baseframe tank, external tank and double-wall piping.
• Supply of supports and tray between the container and external tank for overhead routing of transfer piping and electrical cables.
• Panic bars, anchoring plates and customised structural supports.

Key features of the GEN137FI

• Special 800 L double-wall bunded baseframe tank designed to collect all engine liquids (oil and coolant).
• Double-wall leak sensor for the tank monitored through vacuum console.
• Manual crank pump for filling the tank.
• Earthing coil with clamp for the tank.
• Enclosure painted in the client’s required colour with C5H surface treatment according to ISO 12944.
• Engine coolant recirculation and heating system to ensure optimal start-up temperature.
• 60 kW internal load bank integrated inside the enclosure.
• Additional 4 Pole motorised breaker (80A) for load bank connection, integrated into an independent Power Cabinet fully isolated from the main group breaker.