The interconnector licenses grant marks a step ahead to boost the Northern European electricity grid and contributes to more efficient power markets.
The Nord.Link interconnector, which will run between Norway and Germany, will be commissioned in 2018 while the North Sea Network (NSN), which will run between Norway and UK, is expected to enter service by 2020.
The two Statnett-owned electricity interconnectors, with capacity of 1,400MW, are expected to increase interconnection capacity of Norway by nearly 50% while creating economic benefits.
Statnett is partnering with the German system operator TenneT and the German state owned bank Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) for Nord.Link interconnector project.
For NSN project, Statnett is working with UK system operator National Grid.
Norwegian Petroleum and Energy Minister Tord Lien said the subsea cables are expected to increase Norway’s share of renewable energy.
Norwegian Climate and Environment Minister Tine Sundtoft said the two interconnectors will contribute to Norwegian renewable energy while facilitating green value creation.
EU Commission vice-president responsible for Energy Günther Oettinger said: "Germany and UK can sell renewable energy to Norway when weather conditions are such that they produce a lot and Norway can sell electricity from hydropower. This will benefit both sides and balance the system."
Image: The NordLink and NSN projects will increase Norway’s interconnection capacity by about 50%. Photo: courtesy of twobee/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
