NeuConnect appoints Arup-Fichtner joint venture to oversee delivery of first ever UK-German energy link

NeuConnect has appointed a joint venture of built environment consultancy Arup and engineering firm Fichtner, to provide project services in the delivery of a vital new energy link between the UK and Germany

Led by global investors Meridiam, Allianz Capital Partners and Kansai Electric Power, NeuConnect is a privately-financed interconnector that will create the first direct link between UK and German electricity networks, connecting two of Europe’s largest energy markets for the first time. At 725km long, the 1.4GW NeuConnect link will become one of the world’s largest interconnectors.

The Arup-Fichtner joint venture has been appointed by NeuConnect to provide project and commercial management; Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ) management; and consenting oversight across both the onshore and offshore elements of the project.

Earlier this month, NeuConnect also awarded over £1.5bn of contracts for major cabling and converter station works on the project – NeuConnect is on track to reach financial close in the coming weeks allowing works to start later this year.

NeuConnect CEO Arnaud Grévoz, said:

“The Arup – Fichtner Joint Venture will be an essential partner on the NeuConnect project, helping us manage the delivery of this vital new piece of energy infrastructure. As one of the world’s largest interconnectors, NeuConnect will be a complex project, so the skills and expertise of Arup and Fichtner will play a crucial role in delivering the project on-time, on-budget and to the highest quality.”

Ian Webb, Associate Director, Advisory Services at Arup, said:

“We are excited to be working with Fichtner on the NeuConnect project. We recognise the strategic importance of this investment and both Arup and Fichtner are highly motivated to bring the best of our skills, capability and experience. This new delivery phase contract builds on the services provided during the successful development phase and is one of the significant energy projects Arup is supporting as we support the Energy Transition globally.”

For further information on the NeuConnect project, please visit neuconnect-interconnector.com