HVDC Cross-Channel, Electrical interconnector under English Channel between France and United Kingdom
The HVDC Cross-Channel system stretches across 73 kilometers beneath the English Channel, connecting Bonningues-lès-Calais in France to Sellindge in England with eight submarine cables.
The initial interconnector from 1961 operated with mercury-arc valves at 160 megawatts capacity until 1984, when it was replaced by the current 2000-megawatt system.
The electrical link represents a physical connection between British and French power networks, enabling both countries to balance their energy needs through cross-border exchanges.
The system transfers electricity through eight underwater cables at ±270 kilovolts, with converter stations at both ends transforming direct current back to alternating current.
Before the 2021 fire incident at Sellindge station, this interconnector maintained a 98 percent availability rate and facilitated primarily French-to-British power transfers.
GPS coordinates: 51.06580,1.55630
Latest update: May 27, 2025 13:16
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