Arup and Fichtner forms joint venture to oversee NeuConnect submarine interconnector.
Built environment consultancy Arup has entered a joint venture (JV) with German engineering firm Fichtner to provide project services for the NeuConnect interconnector which will directly link UK and German electricity grids for the first time.
The 1400 MW submarine and land cable system will connect two of Europe’s largest energy markets, promoting the efficient use and integration of renewable energy generation resources in both Germany and the UK.
The NeuConnect interconnector will link the Isle of Grain in Kent, England with the Wilhelmshaven region in Germany, with subsea cables travelling through British, Dutch and German waters, forming an ‘invisible energy highway’ allowing up to 1400 MW of electricity to move in either direction – enough to power up to 1.5 million homes.
The JV will provide project and commercial management, SHEQ and consenting oversight, as well as a comprehensive multidisciplinary technical team delivering an owner’s engineer/client representative role for the onshore and offshore elements of the project.
Ian Webb, associate director, advisory services at Arup, said: “We are excited to be working with Fichtner on the NeuConnect project. We recognise the strategic importance of this investment and both Arup and Fichtner are highly motivated to bring the best of our skills, capability and experience. This new delivery phase contract builds on the services provided during the successful development phase and is one of the significant energy projects Arup is supporting as we support the energy transition globally.”
NeuConnect CEO Arnaud Grévoz, said: “The Arup-Fichtner joint venture will be an essential partner on the NeuConnect project, helping us manage the delivery of this vital new piece of energy infrastructure. As one of the world’s largest interconnectors, NeuConnect will be a complex project, so the skills and expertise of Arup and Fichtner will play a crucial role in delivering the project on-time, on-budget and to the highest quality.”
The interconnector is a privately financed project developed by a group of international investors that include Meridiam, Allianz Capital Partners and Kansai Electric Power, demonstrating that major infrastructure projects needed to deliver the sustainable energy goals in Europe are supported by private investment.
NeuConnect will provide major energy transmission infrastructure contributing to wider European goals for accessible, sustainable and secure electrical power. When completed, NeuConnect will be one of the world’s longest interconnectors and one of the first of its kind to be funded through a project financing arrangement.
