Ofgem has approved two groundbreaking interconnector pilot projects, LionLink and Nautilus, which aim to connect transmission systems and offshore wind farms in the North Sea. The UK regulator's Initial Project Assessment (IPA) for both projects recognizes their potential to significantly enhance energy supply and security for UK consumers.
LionLink, developed by National Grid in partnership with Dutch transmission system operator TenneT, and Nautilus, a collaboration with Belgian transmission operator Elia, are both designated as Offshore Hybrid Assets. These interconnectors will link not only national transmission systems but also offshore wind farms located in the territorial waters of the Netherlands and Belgium, respectively.
Together, the projects would provide a combined capacity of 3.2GW, contributing to the UK's ambitious net-zero targets while ensuring consumers receive low-cost, secure power. The two schemes are expected to deliver £674 million in consumer benefits within the first decade of operations.
National Grid Ventures' involvement in these projects is contingent on final investment decisions and regulatory clarity. Ben Wilson, President of National Grid Ventures, emphasized the importance of securing an “investible framework” for these projects, noting that demand for electricity in the UK is expected to double in the next 25 years. He highlighted that the interconnectors could power up to 4.2 million UK homes, providing clean, renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
TenneT's CEO Manon van Beek stated that LionLink represents the first step toward creating an interconnected offshore grid in the North Sea, supporting decarbonization and energy security across the region. Elia's CEO Frédéric Dunon stressed that Nautilus would strengthen Belgium's energy supply and enhance the competitiveness of its energy-intensive industries by providing access to affordable and sustainable energy from the UK's offshore wind resources.
If approved to proceed, the Nautilus interconnector will connect at the Isle of Grain, Kent. These projects mark a significant milestone in the UK's energy transition and its growing offshore wind capacity.
