Ramboll is involved in the early-stage project which will uncover and describe the consequences of the interconnector for Norway.Ramboll's services include the recommendation of a landing point for the 1400 MW interconnector (high voltage power cable connecting two different power systems). The chosen landing point will determine whether or not the interconnector will be the longest of its kind.

The Norwegian power system is unique due to a large number of hydro power plants with low start/stop costs and large capability to regulate the frequency (balance between production and consumption). By building interconnectors, Norwegian resources can help realise new production forms such as wind power, also outside Norway. The new interconnector will make it possible to export and import power between the UK and Norway, resulting in an improved security of supply on both sides of the cable, and reducing price differences between the connected markets.

Technical pre-study will describe available options

Possible connection points are the stations of Sima and Samnanger - both situated close to one of the most famous fjords in Norway, the Hardangerfjord. Since the area hopes to obtain a world heritage status, the planned 420 kV overhead line between the stations has given rise to major local resistance. This project will have less impact on the landscape, as most of the equipment will be installed on the bottom of the deep fjord. A part of Ramboll's work is to make sure that the chosen solutions are as gentle as possible with respect to all the stakeholders. A key factor of the project is thus to contribute to establishing a productive dialogue between the different stakeholders by delivering a good, balanced, and neutral report.

Ramboll will initially carry out a technical pre-study to determine possible interconnections from the Norwegian sea border to the connection point for the main power grid. The location chosen for the HVDC/HVAC converter station will be decisive for where the transmission lines/cables are to be installed and their environmental impacts. The work on the technical pre-study and the environmental assessment study will therefore in some part be carried out in parallel.

The goal of the project is to deliver an application for concession on behalf of NorthConnect KS.

Cooperation across units

The project will be carried out during 2012. The work will be led by Energy and carried out in collaboration with Ramboll's offices in Trondheim and Kristiansand. The environmental consultancy, Ambio, will deliver parts of the environmental assessment study.

The project is owned by NorthConnect KS, which is owned by the companies Agder Energi, Lyse, E-CO, Vattenfall and Scottish and Southern Energy.

Further information

Håvard Moen, project manager in Ramboll Energy, at [email protected]