Interconnectors allow the trading of electricity between territories. For example, the East–West Interconnector allows the trading of electricity between Great Britain and Ireland. A territory which generates more energy than it requires for its own activities can therefore sell surplus energy to a neighbouring territory.
Interconnectors also provide increased resilience. Within the European Union there is a movement towards a single market for energy, which makes interconnectors viable.[5] They are essential to achieve security of supply.[6] As such, the Nordic and Baltic energy exchange Nord Pool Spot rely on multiple interconnectors. The fullest possible implementation of this is the proposed European super grid which would include numerous interconnectors between national networks.
Interconnectors are used to increase the security of the energy supply and to manage peak demand. They enable cross-border access to the producers and consumers of electricity, thus increasing the competition in energy markets. They also help integrate more electricity generated from renewable sources,[7] thus reducing the use of fossil fuel power plants and CO2 emissions. Interconnectors aid adaptation to changing demand patterns such as the uptake of electric vehicles.
Infrastructure
Existing links
Under construction
Proposed
Many of these HVDC lines transfer power from renewable sources such as hydro and wind. For names, see also the annotated version.
Interconnectors may run across a land border or connect two land areas separated by water. As of July 2022 there are at least 35 international connectors and many more intra-national connectors, see high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) projects.
