Examining Authority concludes examination of AQUIND Interconnector DCO application

March 2021

The Examining Authority appointed by the Planning Inspectorate (PINS) concluded examination of a Development Consent Order (DCO) application for AQUIND Interconnector on 8 March 2021.

The application seeks permission to construct and operate the UK elements of AQUIND Interconnector – a new marine and underground electric power transmission link between the south of England and Normandy in France.

The examination began in September 2020 and involved significant engagement between AQUIND, stakeholders and members of the public as part of a rigorous independent assessment of the scheme.

The PINS-appointed Examining Authority now has three months to make a recommendation to the Government, which will make a decision on whether to grant development consent.

Once operational, AQUIND Interconnector will be capable of transmitting approximately 5% of Great Britain’s total annual electricity consumption, enough to keep the lights on in up to 5 million British households.

AQUIND Interconnector will also help to integrate a greater proportion of non-fossil fuel energy sources and intermittent renewables generation into the GB energy mix, helping to meet the UK’s 2050 Net Zero target through reducing CO2 emissions by 40-70 million tonnes in the first 25 years of its operation.

Throughout the examination process, AQUIND engaged with statutory and other stakeholders and has since put in place mitigation measures based on the feedback it received.

Commenting on the close of the examination, a spokesperson for AQUIND said:

“We would like to thank all of those who engaged with us throughout the examination process.

“AQUIND Interconnector will help reduce GB wholesale electricity prices, saving British consumers between £2.0bn and £3.8bn in net present value terms.

“By enabling the transmission of cleaner and greener forms of energy, AQUIND Interconnector will help to meet the nation’s rising future electricity demand and contribute to achieving Net Zero.

“The project will create around 250 jobs during the construction of the UK onshore elements of the interconnector and a further 250-275 jobs are expected to be created during the marine installation. AQUIND Interconnector will generate investment into the local economy over the entire construction period through the supply chain, employment opportunities, and workers’ expenditure at local businesses”.

Members of the public can contact the project team with any queries regarding the proposals for AQUIND Interconnector at 01962 893869 or aquindconsultation@becg.com.