Electricity Interconnection France-Spain (INELFE), the joint venture bringing together operators of the Spanish (Red Eléctrica) and French (RTE) electricity transmission networks in charge of the construction and commissioning of all cross-border connections between both countries, has awarded the consortium made up of VINCI Energies, VINCI Construction, and Hitachi Energy (leader), a contract for the design/construction of two ground stations for the conversion of electrical energy.

These stations, which will be located in France and Spain, will convert the electrical networks’ alternative current (AC) to direct current. They will be linked by a 400 km cable, including 300 km of submarine cable in the Bay of Biscay, allowing the two countries to exchange energy with a combined capacity of 2 GW.

This new interconnection will improve power supply reliability, allow for greater integration of renewable energy into power grids, and contribute to the creation of a more efficient system.

VINCI will be responsible for the design and construction of the stations’ civil engineering and electrical works for an estimated €300 million. Hitachi Energy will provide the HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) process. These stations are scheduled to be completed in 2028.