National Grid Ventures has announced plans to partner with TenneT Germany to develop GriffinLink, a new multi-purpose interconnector that would connect British and German offshore wind to both countries.
The companies said the integrated approach means:
• Better utilisation of the grids and is a more efficient use of renewable energy across national borders;
• Lowering the costs involved, and the supply chain materials required and;
• A reduced impact on coastal communities and the environment.
As a ‘multi-purpose’ interconnector connecting wind in two countries, GriffinLink would be the first project of its kind in Europe.
The companies said GriffinLink could make an important contribution to security of supply and market integration in northwestern Europe. It is anticipated to be operational by the late 2030s, maximising the use of offshore wind in the Northern Seas, and meeting the demand for energy being driven by the increase in electrification due to decarbonisation, data centres and AI.
The project announcement comes as the UK joined governments of Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Norway, the wind industry and transmission system operators (TSOs) in signing a new Joint Offshore Wind Investment Pact for the North Seas.
The pact reaffirms plans for 300GW of offshore wind capacity by 2050, and it aims to ensure an evenly distributed offshore build-out between 2031 and 2040, charting a path of up to 15GW installed capacity per year in Europe.
Governments will also work towards a sound investment framework for offshore renewables through mechanisms such as national and cross-border two-sided contracts for difference (CfDs) and power purchase agreements (PPAs).
Rasmus Errboe, President and Chief Executive Officer at Ørsted, said: “The Joint Investment Pact is a giant leap towards powering Europe with renewable, reliable, and cost-competitive electricity. The Pact shows the leadership taken by the countries in realising the offshore potential of the North Sea, and Ørsted is ready to answer to the call by investing in the build-out.”
Lisa Christie, Director of Public and Regulatory Affairs at Vattenfall said the pact: “… shows that the UK and Europe are serious about accelerating the energy transition and strengthening energy security. Offshore wind, including new hybrid assets that link countries and boost cross border flexibility, will be essential to protect customers from volatile fossil fuel prices and to deliver more affordable, reliable power over time. Vattenfall continues to invest and deliver major projects across the North Sea because a faster low carbon transition is the clearest path to lower bills, greater resilience, and long term competitiveness.”