The Challenges of Interconnector Projects

Why interconnectors are key to the energy transition

To reach European energy transition targets, infrastructure needs to be expanded and upgraded. Numerous investments are being made to improve grids throughout Europe and more and more interconnectors are being commissioned. These will allow for further integration of renewables, support increased market integration and contribute to the security of supply.

Challenges ahead

The commissioning of interconnectors requires endurance - on average, a new interconnector takes 9 years to complete. Along with enormous efforts to build the infrastructure, new interconnectors must be incorporated into the existing pan-European regulatory, economic and operational environment. Along with this comes the growing need for intensified cooperation among transmission system operators, interconnector owners, regulators and other stakeholders.

The 4 Phases of Interconnector Projects

Each phase comes with its challenges 

1. Assessment. Is the project viable, considering all technical, regulatory and environmental aspects? 
2. Consultation. How do we get relevant stakeholders on board and manage permissions with local, national, and regional authorities?
3. Integration. How can we prepare for integration into system and electricity market operations? 
4. Connection. How can we manage the final steps towards commercial operation? 

How Magnus Energy Supports Interconnector Projects

We have been involved in many interconnector projects. This is how we provide support: 

• Market Design & Market Arrangements. During the assessment phase, we define and assess market design taking into account technical and economic aspects
• Stakeholder Analysis & Management. In the consultation phase, we use market impact assessments and help to engage relevant stakeholders affected by the interconnector project.
• Complex Program Management. Throughout the integration phase, we manage market and system integration projects. In the case of co-owned interconnectors, we ensure that relevant stakeholders work together successfully.
• Test & Go-Live Management. During the final connection phase, we manage the testing and go-live of the interconnector, towards stable integration into electricity markets and operations.

Interconnector projects we have been involved in

Our team has worked on several interconnector projects, such as ALeGro, NordLink, Celtic Interconnector, and GreenLink. 

“Magnus Energy supported us brilliantly. This was a highly complex project, which required in-depth knowledge of capacity calculation and market coupling processes. With their expertise in all the processes and stakeholders involved, they were the right party to guide this project. The consultants provided excellent project management and secured a successful go-live!” -  Filip Carton from Elia, involved in the ALeGro project. 

Are you looking for a clear and full picture of interconnector projects?

Feel free to download our infographic.