Interconnectors: connecting for a cleaner future

On this page you will find more information about current and future interconnectors.

Our interconnectors 

Interconnectors are the perfect tool to deliver a cleaner, more secure and more affordable energy system.

Our interconnectors play a critical role in the UK’s transition to clean energy resources. By 2030, 90% of electricity imported via National Grid’s interconnectors will be from zero carbon sources.

You can find out more by downloading our 'Connecting for a smarter future' document.

Download 'Connecting for a smarter future' 

 

Our projects 

We currently have three interconnectors in operation and three under construction. There are also a further three interconnector projects that are in the early stages of development.
 

In operation

  • BritNed – an independent joint venture with TenneT, connecting the UK and the Netherlands since 2011.

  • IFA – our first link between the UK and France, operated together with RTE since 1986.

  • NEMO Link – a joint venture with Elia connecting the UK and Belgium. In operation since January 2019.                                                                                                
Under construction

  • IFA2 – our second link to France, developed with RTE, expected to be operational in 2020.

  • North Sea Link – developed with Statnett, North Sea Link will connect the UK and Norway. It will be the world’s longest subsea interconnector when operational in 2021.

  • Viking Link – we’re developing a link between the UK and Denmark together with Energinet. It’s due to be operational in 2023.
     

In development

Nautilus

The Nautilus Interconnector is a proposal to build a High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission cable between East Suffolk, England and Belgium.

If built, the 1.4GW HVDC link could supply enough electricity to power 1 million homes. 

Proposals for the Nautilus Interconnector are at a very early stage. Should the proposals be taken forward, National Grid Interconnectors will undertake early and extensive public consultation for the project as part of its pre-application development process.                                        

Nautilus is also a Project of Common Interest (PCI). PCIs are key cross border infrastructure projects that link the energy systems of EU countries. They are intended to help the EU achieve its energy policy and climate objectives: affordable, secure and sustainable energy for all citizens, and the long-term decarbonisation of the economy.

Find out more

EuroLink

EuroLink is a proposal to build a High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission cable between the UK and the Netherlands.

The capacity of the link will be 1400MW and the project is still in the very early stages of development.

EuroLink is a Project of Common Interest as set under ENTSO-E Central European Funding initiative.