ElecLink, Electrical interconnector in Channel Tunnel, France and United Kingdom.
ElecLink is an electrical interconnector running through the Channel Tunnel, connecting converter stations at Peuplingues in France and Folkestone in the United Kingdom. The high-voltage direct current cable extends 51 kilometers and carries power between the two nations through the existing tunnel infrastructure.
Construction began in 2017 when the foundation stone was placed at Folkestone converter station, marking the start of this cross-channel power link. The project arose from the need to connect the electrical grids of France and the United Kingdom more efficiently.
This electrical infrastructure embodies the principles of European energy cooperation through its integration of French and British power networks.
The system carries electricity at a capacity of 1000 megawatts in both directions, helping balance power supply between the two nations. Installation of the cables was accomplished using specially designed equipment to fit within the existing tunnel.
A work train measuring 51 meters long was specially built to install the high-voltage cables inside the Channel Tunnel, allowing workers to operate in such a confined space. This custom vehicle was a tailored solution to one of the project's most challenging infrastructure problems.
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