IFA2 is a 1,000 MW high voltage direct current (HVDC) electrical interconnector currently under construction between the British and French transmission systems. It will be the second link to France that National Grid has developed with RTE.
Why do we need interconnectors?
An interconnector allows countries to exchange power, helping to ensure safe, secure and affordable energy supplies. They are the heart of the transition to a smarter energy system and integral to delivering a more flexible energy system for consumers.
Why do we need IFA2?
IFA2 will provide the capability to export or import 1,000MW of power. This brings three important benefits for our national energy requirements:
Affordability:
By giving Great Britain access to the European electricity market, IFA2 should help create downward pressure on wholesale electricity prices. We estimate that each 1,000MW of new interconnector capacity has the potential to reduce wholesale prices in Great Britain by up to 2%.
Security of supply:
Consumers throughout Europe use electricity in various ways at different times of the day, and interconnection allows electricity to be moved to where it is needed. This is particularly important at times of ‘system stress’, such as a combination of cold weather and unexpected power station shutdowns.
Sustainability:
Interconnectors allow countries to look beyond their borders and use renewable energy more efficiently. When it is sunny and windy in Great Britain, for example, where lots of power is generated, electricity can be moved quickly to a country where it’s needed. When British conditions are less favourable, power can be imported from Europe.
Project map
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Interactive project mapNews
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Friday, December 7, 2018
IFA2 to take part in oyster translocation project in partnership with Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority (IFCA) as part of the Solent Oyster Restoration Project
We have been working with the Southern IFCA to carry out an oyster translocation programme to support local regeneration of the native oyster population in the Solent. As part of the IFA2 project, we have recently funded the chartering of a local fishing vessel in the Lee-on-Solent to Chilling area to collect data on and mitigate the impact to the native oyster populations over the HVAC cable route.
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We have been working with the Southern IFCA to carry out an oyster translocation programme to support local regeneration of the native oyster population in the Solent. As part of the IFA2 project, we have recently funded the chartering of a local fishing vessel in the Lee-on-Solent to Chilling area to collect data on and mitigate the impact to the native oyster populations over the HVAC cable route.
The Solent Oyster Restoration Project, set up by marine conservation charity Blue Marine Foundation (BLUE), seeks to rebuild the Solent’s native oyster population by restoring habitats in partnership with local fisherman, marine and local authorities and scientists. Through the funding we have provided to the Southern IFCA, local fishermen have been working with BLUE to collect oysters on the IFA2 route. The oysters collected are then moved to broodstock cages where they can contribute towards restoring the once self-sustaining oyster population.
The native oyster, Ostrea edulis, has been found in the Solent since the 1970s. Historically seen as Europe’s largest self-sustaining flat (native) oyster fishery in its peak, the oyster population has recently declined, affecting fishermen and the overall health of the marine ecosystems in the Solent. Temporary closures of oyster harvesting have been in place in recent years to avoid further loss of the native oyster population and allow remaining adult oysters in the Solent to reproduce and act as a breeding stock.
Dave Luetchford, head of IFA2 said: “We’re thrilled to be supporting the Solent Oyster Restoration Project. This is a great opportunity to make a contribution to conservation in the Solent, helping to restore to the region’s once self-sustaining oyster population, supporting employment in the oyster fishery and thereby the local economy, as well as improving biodiversity and water quality in the Solent.”
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Friday, November 23, 2018
Construction Information Event
On Wednesday 28th November 2018 we held a construction information event on the latest work we are doing for IFA2. The event took place between 15:30- 19:30 at The Bridge Conference Suite, Fareham Innovation Centre, Merlin House, 4 Meteor Way, Fareham, Lee-on-the Solent, PO13 9FU. Members of our team were available to answer questions and discuss the project in more detail.
Read more »On Wednesday 28th November 2018 we held a construction information event on the latest work we are doing for IFA2.
The event took place between 15:30- 19:30 at The Bridge Conference Suite, Fareham Innovation Centre, Merlin House, 4 Meteor Way, Fareham, Lee-on-the Solent, PO13 9FU.
Members of our team were available to answer questions and discuss the project in more detail.
To take a look at our invitation leaflet please click here
To view the information displayed at the event please click here
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Friday, November 16, 2018
Major milestone for IFA2 as first UK converter station buildings erected
November sees a major milestone for IFA2 as the first steel structures start to be erected at the UK converter station site.
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The main work contractors ABB are working with Morgan Sindall who are overseeing the civil phase of the build.The steel structures, which will be erected over the coming months, will be the first visible structures at the site. In time, they will house the key elements of the converter station including the AC & DC electrical equipment and form the control building.
Once the structures have been erected, contractors, Morgan Sindall will weatherproof the buildings. Internal fit out and the installation of transformers is due to take place later in 2019.
Dave Luetchford, head of National Grid IFA2, said:
“To date, all our work on the converter station has taken place behind the site hoarding. It’s great to see the converter station now taking shape.”
For further information about work at the converter station site, please contact National Grid IFA2 on 0800 0194 576 or info@ifa2interconnector.com