ElecLink France-UK interconnector
Channel Tunnel, between Folkestone (Kent, UK) and Calais (France) · 2016–2022 (commercial operation May 2022) · N/A (privately funded, estimated €600 million)
The judgement call
Account-gated at launchThe world's first HVDC interconnector in a live rail tunnel, demonstrating innovative use of existing infrastructure for energy transmission. - The project faced delays due to regulatory approvals and technical challenges, highlighting the complexities of pioneering infrastructure projects. - The unique location provides inherent security and protection for the cables.
Key engineering challenges
Installing high-voltage DC cables within an operational railway tunnel (Channel Tunnel), requiring specialized safety protocols and coordination with railway operations. - Managing the thermal challenges of power cables within a confined tunnel environment. - Ensuring the structural integrity of the tunnel during cable installation and operation.
Project facts
- Client / owner
- Getlink (formerly Eurotunnel)
- Lead contractor
- Balfour Beatty (for installation), Siemens (for converter stations)
- Lead designers
- N/A
- Project type
- new build
- Scale
- 1 GW (1000 MW) capacity; two HVDC cables inside the Channel Tunnel
- Disciplines
- electrical; civil; mechanical; railway engineering; tunnelling
- Standards & frameworks
- N/A
Sources: Getlink: https://www.getlinkgroup.com/en/our-group/eleclink/ - Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ElecLink - Balfour Beatty: https://www.balfourbeatty.com/what-we-do/projects/eleclink-interconnector-project-kent/ - Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/france-uk-electrical-interconnector-suspended-until-june-2-channel-tunnel-2025-05-19/