The AQUIND electricity interconnector project between France and England is moving forward: The prefectural decree granting environmental authorisation signed today is an important milestone for the project.

This authorisation sets out in detail strong commitments in favour of the environment and the territory, notably:

• Numerous specific and concerted measures for fishing, agriculture, and the preservation of the economy and local services during the construction of the project: including an agricultural compensation established by the Chamber of Agriculture, a liaison unit with professional fishermen, compensation protocols in case of disruption during onshore and offshore works
• Landscape integration plans and environmental monitoring
• Mechanisms for controlling the construction site and facilities, and measures to ensure respect for the environment, safety, and peacefulness in the surrounding area
• Monitoring committees to guarantee transparency and compliance with the project’s commitments.

Martin Dubourg, France Director, expresses his satisfaction: “We see this prefectural decision as an important milestone. The authorisation decree is very precise and robust, and the consulted authorities have highlighted the high quality and completeness of our environmental studies. AQUIND is committed to continuing to carry out the project in a respectful and responsible manner, responding transparently to the expectations of residents and their representatives.”

He adds: “In addition to significant annual contributions that will directly benefit the region, local employment benefits are expected too: the network of Chambers of Commerce and Industry and a large number of Normandy companies mobilized during the public inquiry at the beginning of the year, highlighting their interest in the project. They emphasised their qualifications and experience to carry out the works, and I would like to thank them for that.”

“The project team is also continuing efforts at the national level and in the United Kingdom to obtain the other necessary authorisations for its launch; commissioning is planned by 2030.”

AQUIND Interconnector will help reduce the impact of energy price volatility. By connecting the British and French electricity grids, it will make energy markets more efficient and offer more flexibility to their operators. With a capacity of 2,000 MW, the interconnector will export and import up to 17 million MWh of electricity each year. It will also enable the integration of a larger share of renewable energy, thereby contributing to achieving carbon neutrality in Europe.