Subsea electricity interconnectors are a well-proven technology for the long distance transport of electricity.
We have designed the interconnector to the highest industry standards and to deliver optimal efficiency and reliability. The design also takes into account ways to minimise environmental impacts during construction and operations by ‘building-in’ best practices and mitigation measures from an early stage.
Many independent technical studies have been carried out by manufacturers, engineers and national authorities to evaluate the available technologies and provide cost-benefit analyses for High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) interconnectors. Links to examples of these studies are provided below.
Please find links to relevant independent technical studies below:
The GridLink project is a subsea electricity interconnector comprising a High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) cable. This technology reduces energy losses and, therefore optimises the efficiency and minimises the costs of transporting electricity.
The cable will connect to converter stations at each end. The purpose of the converter stations is to transform the transported electricity from HVDC to High Voltage Alternating Current (HVAC) to feed into the national grids in each country.
Currently there are a range of alternative designs for cables and converter stations. The choice typically depends on the cable length, available space, performance requirements and costs. In making a final decision regarding the design of cables and converter stations, GridlLink has been guided by previous experience of other interconnector projects and the findings from our own feasibility studies.
The GridLink project comprises three main elements: subsea and onshore HVDC cable, converter stations and onshore HVAC cable connections to the national grids in the UK and France. GridLink is responsible for the onshore HVAC cable in the UK, whilst RTE will implement the onshore HVAC cable in France.
Please find links to further information on the design of the GridLink project below:
