A new submarine power cable connects the Dutch wind farm to the UK

Minister Rob Gitten (Climate and Energy) and his British colleague Grant Shapps will make the announcement on Monday afternoon at the North Sea Summit in Ostend, Belgium.

The new direct current cable is being developed by national grid operator TenneT and Britain’s National Grid. “The North Sea will become the largest supplier of green electricity to the Netherlands and large parts of Europe,” says Minister Gitten. “Close cooperation in offshore wind energy and interconnection between North Sea countries is essential in this regard.”

According to the minister, LionLink can provide nearly 2 gigawatts of electricity to both countries, “enough to power two million households.” The new compound also aims to reduce carbon dioxide₂emissions, increases Europe’s energy independence and increases security of supply.

Lack of energy

“For example, if there is a surplus of wind energy, it can be immediately shared with countries that are experiencing energy shortages, and vice versa,” Gitten said. Connecting offshore wind farms via the first cross-border direct current cable of this size is a new step towards creating an integrated network in the North Sea.

By 2030, the Netherlands will have achieved approximately 21 GW of offshore wind capacity and is considering whether 50 GW in 2040 and 72 GW in 2050 is feasible, also in light of the physical space and environmental impact.