This week, Ofgem confirmed the approval of the Initial Project Assessment for the LionLink and Nautilus electricity interconnectors, determined as Offshore Hybrid Assets.

The interconnectors would connect national transmission systems and offshore wind sites, located in Dutch and Belgian waters. Both projects are revolutionary, incorporating innovative technology required to deliver the longest land and subsea interconnector in the world, National Grid’s Viking Link.

LionLink is being constructed with Dutch transmission operator TenneT and Nautilus with Belgian business, Elia. If both projects continue to progress, they will create a combined capacity of 3.2GW, and would considerably increase the interconnector capacity, which the Government, the National Energy System Operator and the Climate Change Committee have all claimed is critical to achieving our net zero goals and to deliver affordable and secure energy for the future.
Both projects will generate a combined revenue of £674 million in consumer benefits over the first ten years of operation.

Ben Wilson, President of National Grid Ventures, explained that Ofgem approving LionLink and Nautilus Project Assessment is positive and a vital step towards securing the regulatory requirements to deliver these projects. Customer demand for electricity is expected to double over the next 25 years, and if constructed, these interconnectors could provide the required flexibility for now and the future. LionLink and Nautilus combined would have the capacity to power over 4 million UK properties, providing clean, secure renewable energy and reducing emissions.

Manon Van Beek, CEO of TenneT, believes LionLink is the first step towards future offshore projects delivered within a combined offshore DC grid. Van Beek believes this hybrid interconnector supports decarbonisation, and energy independence and strengthens supply security for the region. Van Beek is confident that the combination of the UK and Netherlands, their suppliers and governments will make this project a complete success.

Frederic Dunon, the CEO of Elia Transmission Belgium, explains that Nautius represents a critical project for our national energy supply. Dunon highlights that their offshore wind potential is relatively limited, so connections with other regions with surplus wind energy, like Britain, are critical. Nautilus will strengthen supply security and provide access to competitive energy prices.

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