Significant milestones reached for our next generation interconnector
The National Grid Ventures Interconnector team has been developing proposals to build the next generation of interconnectors, known as Offshore Hybrid Assets (OHAs). OHAs are a crucial part of building out the North Sea grid.
Together with our Dutch partner, TenneT, we are developing plans to build a new subsea cable (known as an interconnector) between Great Britain and the Netherlands. The project, called LionLink, will connect to a Dutch offshore wind farm, connecting the Great British and Dutch electric grids. LionLink will play an important role in reducing the UK's reliance on fossil fuels and supporting the UK government's objectives to create a secure, reliable and affordable energy supply for approximately 2.5 million UK households.
After several years in development, we’ve now reached three significant milestones:
- In October 2024, the project successfully passed Ofgem’s Initial Project Assessment (IPA). IPA approval is a critical regulatory milestone for new interconnector projects, where Ofgem confirms that projects are in the interest of consumers and suitable for a cap and floor regime.
- In February 2025, the landfall point for LionLink was announced following extensive consultation with the community and local stakeholders.
- In March 2025, the project secured the next step in the regulatory framework when Ofgem published the cap and floor parameters within which LionLink will be able to trade.
Ben Wilson, President of National Grid Ventures said:
Ofgem’s approval of LionLink’s Initial Project Assessment and the confirmation of the project's regulatory parameters is welcome news and an important step towards having the certainty we need to build this project. Consumer demand for electricity is set to double in the next 25 years and, if built, this interconnector would provide the invaluable flexibility we need in the system both now and in 2050.