UK regulator Ofgem is consulting on proposals to approve the need for three new electricity interconnectors.
These could be built by 2020 and provide around 3.4GW of electricity capacity – almost doubling current interconnector capacity between the UK and the EU.
Two of the interconnectors (FAB Link and IFA2) will connect GB’s electricity system with France and one (Viking Link) with Denmark.
More electricity interconnection can lower GB consumer bills by creating access to cheaper generation and further boost Britain’s energy supply. These three interconnectors are estimated to provide around £8 billion of benefits to GB consumers over 25 years.
There are currently four interconnectors between GB and Europe, providing around 4GW of electricity capacity. This represents around 4% of Britain’s electricity supply.
Ofgem is also consulting on not progressing the application for an interconnector between GB and Ireland (Greenlink), as proposals did not demonstrate enough value for GB consumers.
Martin Crouch, Senior Partner, Electricity Transmission, said: “Ofgem is helping to deliver greater interconnection. These three interconnectors would further boost Britain’s energy security and reduce pressure on bills. To date, under our cap and floor regime, we are looking at adding around 5GW to Britain’s energy supply.”
Last month, Ian Duncan, the sole Tory Euro MP for Scotland, called for a Scotland-EU interconnector as part of a European Energy Union; see –
http://www.scottishenergynews.com/scottish-tory-mep-welcomes-new-european-energy-union-plan-and-calls-for-a-n-sea-interconnector/
The deadline for submissions is 2 May 2015.
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