Expanding the grid with renewable cross-border capacity

New interconnectors are key to accommodating the energy transition. NordLink is the first direct power connection between Germany and Norway. In addition to the infrastructural work and system integration, this connection must be implemented in the European electricity markets. How can NordLink access the capacity calculation region (CCR) and pan-European allocation platforms to ensure cross-border transmission and trade are possible? Magnus Energy guided NordLink’s stakeholders throughout the process and ensured a successful go-live. 

Key figures 

• Added 1,400 megawatts of renewable energy 
• Live since 2020

Working on the ‘Green Link’ 

To enable the energy transition, the current energy infrastructure needs to be expanded. Numerous investments are underway to enhance grid improvements throughout Europe, such as introducing new interconnectors like NordLink. Also known as The Green Link, this High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) link will enable the exchange of 1.400 megawatts of renewable energy – wind power from Germany and hydropower from Norway.  

Alongside the complex and lengthy infrastructural work and system integration, NordLink must be implemented in the European energy markets. How can this asset be integrated into the current European capacity markets? Adding to the complexity is the fact that NordLink is a high-voltage direct current (HVDC) interconnector that needs to integrate into a dense alternating current (AC) grid—much like building a skyscraper in a medieval city centre. 

Our role? Getting everyone to the finish line 

Magnus Energy has an excellent record in guiding European electricity market integration projects. Our team is asked to ensure that the interconnectors are integrated into all operational processes. We support NordLink and all stakeholders in completing its integration into the European markets and governance structures. 

Using our best practices, we provide test management and go-live support. All impacted systems are thoroughly tested to ensure that the capacity calculation in the (then) Central Western European region remains accurate after going live. This included testing with pan-European systems, the grid operators involved, as well as market operators and service centres that needed to adapt their systems for the new interconnectors.

The result: successful integration into the electricity markets 

By the end of 2020, NordLink successfully crossed the finish line. With its go-live, it accommodates further integration of renewables into the grid while ensuring that prices decrease and security of supply is guaranteed. NordLink is set to make a decisive contribution to the European energy transition. 

Contact our experts 

Our experts are here to guide you. Reach out to our experts Mark Klein Entink and Chrisitiane Stut to learn more.