Electricity cables

Electricity can be transmitted offshore via submarine cables.

We consider there to be four types of offshore electricity cable:

  1. Export cables which transmit electricity from offshore generating stations, such as wind farms, to shore.
  2. Interconnectors which transfer electricity between countries.
  3. Wayleaves and distribution cables which circulate power around the UK, principally for domestic use.
  4. Electricity transmission cables which transport larger quantities of electricity around the UK network.

The development of offshore renewables and the drive for improved interconnection is increasing the demand for submarine power cables and we expect the number located on the marine estate to increase.