Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O'Brien has signed two landmark Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) at the WindEurope conference in Madrid. The agreements with Spain and the United Kingdom aim to accelerate the transition to a clean energy system and bolster regional energy security.

The first MoU, signed alongside Spanish Minister Sara Aagesen Muñoz, establishes a framework to explore a potential electricity interconnector between Ireland and Spain. The agreement initiates a structured feasibility assessment involving:

TSO Cooperation: Joint technical and economic analysis between both nations' transmission system operators.

Decarbonisation Goals: Integrating renewable energy sources more effectively across the European grid.

Network Planning: Potential alignment with future European-wide energy infrastructure projects.

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Minister O'Brien also met with UK Energy Minister Michael Shanks to extend the existing Ireland-UK MoU on energy transition. The current agreement, set to expire in June 2026, has been extended to ensure continuity in critical areas including:

Offshore Renewables: Collaborative development of wind and wave energy assets.

Market Stability: Aligning electricity markets and ensuring a secure supply for both islands.

Climate Objectives: Maintaining a unified front on shared decarbonisation targets.

Strategic Context: 2026 EU Presidency

The signings occur as Ireland prepares to take the Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2026. Ireland will be responsible for progressing the European Grids Package, a legislative priority aimed at making the continental energy system more secure and affordable.

Minister Darragh O'Brien commented: "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."