Ofgem has given the green light to five significant undersea energy interconnectors, which are poised to enhance the UK's energy supply and harness the immense potential of North Sea wind. These projects will enable more efficient exports of surplus power and help import low-cost energy during periods of domestic supply shortages, supporting the transition to a cleaner and more resilient energy system.
The approved projects include the 1.4GW Tarchon Energy Interconnector linking East Anglia with Niederlangen, Germany, the 750MW Mares Connect subsea cable between North Wales and the Republic of Ireland, and the 700MW LirIC interconnector connecting Kilroot in Northern Ireland to Hunterston in Scotland. Notably, two of these projects—LionLink and Nautilus—will also establish Great Britain's first Offshore Hybrid Assets (OHAs), directly feeding energy from offshore wind farms into both domestic and European grids.
Energy Minister Michael Shanks emphasized the vital role interconnectors play in building a secure and sustainable energy supply. He noted that these five projects would significantly boost Britain's interconnector capacity by 6GW, allowing for the export of clean electricity during peak generation and the importation of affordable power when necessary. This is part of the broader strategy to transform Britain into a clean energy superpower through infrastructure upgrades and job creation.
Akshay Kaul, Ofgem's Director General for Infrastructure, explained that the regulator had thoroughly evaluated each project to ensure it delivers value, reliability, and energy security. As the UK shifts towards a cleaner, more intermittent energy system driven by wind and solar power, these interconnectors will be crucial for balancing supply and demand, reducing dependence on volatile foreign gas markets, and supporting lower energy prices.
Among the projects, LionLink will link Dutch offshore wind farms to the UK grid with a capacity to provide up to 1.8GW of power to both nations. Similarly, Nautilus will connect Belgian offshore wind farms to the UK, delivering up to 1.4GW through subsea cables. The 700MW LirIC interconnector, which will facilitate energy flow between Northern Ireland and Scotland, is expected to be operational in the early 2030s.
Keith Morrison, Project Director for LirIC, welcomed Ofgem's approval and highlighted the strategic importance of the project for both Great Britain and Northern Ireland. The project is set to provide vital energy links as the UK works towards becoming a net energy exporter by the 2030s, ensuring a cleaner and more secure energy future.
