The UK is leading the world in decarbonising electricity, but will still be dependent on flexibility services to balance out intermittent renewables. Subsea high voltage cables between countries, interconnectors, can not only balance our increasing share of renewables such as offshore wind, but also deliver cheaper bills, increased energy security, more and cheaper renewables, and faster decarbonisation.
From 4GW of interconnectors today, this must rise to 17-19GW of interconnectors to deliver the maximum benefits. However, this will also depend on the international agreements between countries. A ‘No-Deal’ Brexit scenario would cost the UK £2.2bn annually. Continued membership of the internal energy market and EU standards bodies would keep electricity bills low. The UK must also expand its renewable and energy storage capacities sufficiently to get the most value from interconnection with neighbouring countries.
