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
The interactive project map shows the extent of work being undertaken in your area.
Interactive project mapNews
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Monday, December 2, 2019
IFA2 looks to the skies to enhance safety
IFA2 has worked with Daedalus-based company Flylogix on the development of an innovative solution for the coordination of offshore safety.
Read more »IFA2 has worked with Daedalus-based company Flylogix on the development of an innovative solution for the coordination of offshore safety. The local technology and aviation business carried out Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operations over the congested waters of the Solent and the Channel. Its mission was to provide live video of cable installation to help coordinate safety operations on the water.
The UAV in the air
Jake Stevens, IFA2 project manager, said: “We are laying interconnector cables in one of the most congested marine and aviation areas in the UK. In order for the works to be performed safely and minimise disruption we have looked at developing an innovative solution to help manage offshore operations.
“To further support our safety vessels for this operation we have also worked with Flylogix, here on Solent Airfield, to include aviation and add a further dimension to our safety solution. Our aim was to develop a UAV real time image system to increase the monitoring of vessel traffic in area and to help ensure that the project can be completed without incident to the public or commercial water users.
“We know that working with local businesses, such as Flylogix, can bring benefits to the project and also to the community. We were very pleased to be able to source the specialist expertise we needed right here in Lee-on-the-Solent.”
Chris Tavner, Flylogix and Adrian Morris, IFA2
Ed Clay, Flylogix's Operations Director, said: “The Solent is one of the busiest stretches of water around the UK with the convergence of heavy commercial, freight, leisure and fishing vessels coupled with challenging navigational features. The addition of our UAV surveillance capability further bolstered an already comprehensive maritime management operation for the IFA2 interconnector project.”
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Wednesday, November 13, 2019
National Grid IFA2 and the Fairey Barracuda story: additional date now available!
Due to the high demand for places at our event on October 29th we are hosting this presentation again on Tuesday 10th December, 2019.
Read more »Due to the high demand for places at our event on October 29th we are hosting this presentation again on Tuesday 10th December, 2019.
A rare World War 2 Barracuda bomber was discovered during work to prepare the route for HVAC cables between Monks Hill Beach and Chilling, as part of the construction of the IFA2 electricity interconnector between the UK and France. It is the most complete example in existence and is proving invaluable in Fleet Air Arm’s project to create a unique replica. Dave Morris, Curator of Aircraft at the Fleet Air Arm Museum, will speak about the work he is doing to preserve the salvaged aircraft.
Where: The Bridge conference room, Fareham Innovation Centre, Merlin House, 4 Meteor Way, Lee-on-the-Solent, PO13 9FU
When: Tuesday 10th December 2019
Time: 1600-1700 or 1800-1900Please follow the link here to reserve your place as seating is limited.
When doing so, please select the time of the event that you would like to book by using the drop down bar on the right hand side of the page. Please reserve a place for only one of the two times.
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Wednesday, November 13, 2019
Hair raising science at St Columba Primary Academy!
We have been visiting local junior schools as part of a wider school engagement programme and recently visited St Columba C. of E. Primary Academy in Fareham.
Read more »We have been visiting local junior schools as part of a wider school engagement programme and recently visited St Columba C. of E. Primary Academy in Fareham.
Jake Stevens, IFA2 Project Manager, led a session for Years 5 and 6 with ‘Mad Scientists’, Super Sian and Electric Eddy. The children were fascinated to hear about National Grid’s IFA2 interconnector construction project and very keen to get involved in experiments to demonstrate how electric currents are conducted. The Van de Graaff generator concluded the session and was met with delight from all the pupils!
Our school engagement programme is open to all local primary schools. We are keen to support children living in the local area, making learning about STEM subjects engaging and fun – for more information email info@ifa2interconnector.com or call 0800 0194 576.