Ofgem approves LionLink and Nautilus pilot projects for North Sea wind interconnectors

The UK energy regulator, Ofgem, has approved the initial stages of two interconnector pilot projects, LionLink and Nautilus, aimed at linking the UK’s transmission network with offshore wind farms in the North Sea. 

These “offshore hybrid assets” will connect UK, Dutch, and Belgian grids directly to offshore wind farms, delivering a combined capacity of 3.2 GW. National Grid is leading the projects in partnership with Dutch and Belgian transmission operators TenneT and Elia.

Upon completion, LionLink and Nautilus are projected to supply clean energy to 4.2 million UK homes, supporting the UK’s net-zero goals by 2050. National Grid Ventures’ commitment to finalizing these projects is subject to a favourable regulatory framework, with Nautilus expected to make landfall at Kent’s Isle of Grain.