Doetinchem – Wesel 380 kV

With three cross-border interconnections with Germany, two with Belgium, one with Norway, and one with the United Kingdom (soon to be completed), the Dutch grid constitutes an important ‘power hub’ within the north-west European electricity grid. Because of the steady increase in electricity consumption and cross‑border transmission, a new interconnection between the Netherlands and Germany is required. This connection is necessary for three reasons:

• Ongoing development towards an integrated north-west European electricity market. Such a market is an important aim of both the European Commission and the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs, because electricity can then be generated in the most cost-efficient location. The new connection is needed for the Netherlands to be able to play an optimum role in such an integrated market. 
• Maintaining the reliability of the electricity supply system. If, for example, a large power station fails in the Netherlands, other power stations must be able to cope with the loss in capacity immediately. This is often done by a power station in the Netherlands and one abroad. Consequently, it is important to have sufficient high-voltage connections between countries. 
• To create more room for sustainably generated electricity.     

You can find more information about the new high-voltage connection on the dedicated website www.doetinchem-wesel380kv.nl (Dutch only).