UK’s National Grid and TenneT Germany have announced a collaboration to develop a multi-purpose interconnector aimed at linking offshore wind generation in Britain and Germany to both countries’ electricity systems.
The interconnector, named GriffinLink, is projected to connect up to 2 GW of offshore wind capacity and aims to be operational by the late 2030s, pending a final investment decision.
GriffinLink would integrate cross-border electricity interconnection with direct links to offshore wind farms in both countries, marking it as the first multi-purpose interconnector of its kind in Europe. The system is planned to distribute power to either electricity grid based on demand.
The project was launched at the North Sea Summit in Hamburg, where nine North Sea countries, including the UK and Germany, committed to developing 100 GW of cross-border offshore wind projects and enhancing interconnections.
Under their cooperation agreement, National Grid Ventures and TenneT Germany will conduct onshore and offshore studies for GriffinLink, including analyzing existing developments as part of a unified European grid.
Further research during the development phase will evaluate the business case and assess the socio-economic impacts, as stated by National Grid.
The companies highlighted that the integrated design could optimize grid infrastructure use, reduce costs and supply-chain material needs, and minimize impacts on coastal communities and the environment compared to separate connections.
GriffinLink is intended to meet the increasing energy demand driven by electrification due to decarbonization, data centers, and AI, according to National Grid.
The UK and Germany are also working on another interconnector, the 725-kilometer NeuConnect, which will establish the first direct energy transmission link between the two countries, capable of transferring 1.4 GW of electricity in either direction.
NeuConnect is being developed by a consortium that includes Meridiam, Allianz Group, Kansai Electric Power, and TEPCO, with an expected operational date in 2028.
Reach the offshore wind industry in one go!
offshoreWIND.biz is read by thousands of offshore wind professionals every day.
Increase your visibility with banners, tell your story with a branded article, and showcase your expertise with a full-page company profile in our offshore wind business directory.
Follow offshoreWIND.biz on:
Original Story at www.offshorewind.biz