First phase of UK-Germany energy link completed

The £2.4 billion NeuConnect project has completed the first 56 km of cabling, creating the first direct energy link between the UK and Germany. 

This phase included both onshore and subsea cabling works in the UK.

NeuConnect will link new converter stations in Kent, UK, and Wilhelmshaven, Germany, through a 725 km land and subsea cable system, forming an “invisible energy highway.” 

With a capacity of 1.4 GW, it will power up to 1.5 million homes and enhance energy security while integrating renewable energy sources across both countries.

Major construction began in 2023, with foundation and piling works progressing at both converter stations. This first phase of cabling, led by contractor Prysmian, included the installation of more than 50 km of onshore and subsea cables. 

Subsea cables have been buried beneath the seabed to ensure protection and minimal environmental impact. Cabling installation will resume in 2025 and continue through UK, Dutch, and German waters until 2027.

The project employs 525 kV High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology. NeuConnect is expected to be operational by 2028.

Chair of NeuConnect, Julia Prescot, highlighted the milestone’s symbolic significance, stating, “Completing this first phase of cabling is a major milestone… as a major new energy link between both countries begins to take shape.”

Photo credit: NeuConnect