Construction is currently underway on the NeuConnect project, a crucial energy link spanning 1400MW between the United Kingdom and Germany.
This significant interconnector will connect two of Europe’s largest energy markets for the first time, promoting energy security and the integration of renewable energy sources in both countries.
The cabling contractor, Prysmian, has initiated horizontal directional drilling (HDD) on the Isle of Grain site in the UK to bring the subsea cables onshore while minimizing surface and environmental impact.
Siemens Energy, the contractor for NeuConnect, is simultaneously working on attenuation ponds and a main access road to connect to the upcoming electricity converter station further inland from the UK’s HDD works. Construction of the UK converter station is scheduled to commence next year.
In addition to the onshore works, offshore survey activities are ongoing to prepare for the future installation of subsea cables. The initial phase of subsea cable installation is planned to begin next year. Meanwhile, 725km of cabling is being produced at Prysmian’s factory in Arco Felice, Italy, and Sumitomo’s factory in Osaka, Japan.
Major construction work in Germany will kick off early next year. Global investors Meridiam, Allianz Capital Partners, Kansai Electric Power, and TEPCO are leading the NeuConnect project, aiming to establish it as one of the world’s largest interconnectors.
The extensive network of approximately 725km of land and subsea cables will create an “invisible energy highway” between the UK and Germany, facilitating bi-directional electricity flow and enhancing energy resilience and security.
The converter station on the Isle of Grain in Kent will connect to the Wilhelmshaven region in Lower Saxony, northern Germany, using subsea cables passing through British, Dutch, and German waters.
NeuConnect is projected to become operational by 2028.
Lord Johnson, UK Minister for Investment, said “This £2.4bn project doesn’t just demonstrate continued global investor confidence in the UK, but also the successful work we are doing with our European neighbours to drive investment and deliver vital new infrastructure.”
“The first spade in the ground is a significant milestone on a project of national importance, so I offer my congratulationsto NeuConnect and its investors.”
German Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Miguel Berger, added “NeuConnect is a key project to support Germany and the UK in achieving their climate targets and to boost energy security. It is the largest Anglo-German infrastructure project and will enable us to share excess power – preventing renewable energy from being wasted.”
“NeuConnect’s 725km power highway will be the first direct energy link between the UK and Germany.”
“With construction underway in Kent, and major construction due to start early next year in Wilhelmshaven at the German end, speedy progress can be expected.”
In July 2022, NeuConnect achieved Financial Close with a consortium comprising over 20 national and international banks and financial institutions, which included the UK Infrastructure Bank, European Investment Bank, and Japan Bank for International Cooperation.
Following the successful Financial Close last year, a series of site surveys and archaeological investigations have been conducted, enabling the commencement of construction work in the UK.
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