What Aquind say...

THE company said it was ‘disappointed’ with the decision and that it was considering a potential legal challenge.

A spokesperson for

Aquind said: ‘We are naturally disappointed that our application has been refused, despite the existing government policy promoting development of new interconnectors and the benefits the project would bring, which are acknowledged in the decision of the Secretary of State. We draw attention to the recommendation by the apolitical, independent Examining Authority that found strongly in favour of Aquind Interconnector.

‘We disagree with the decision of the Secretary of State, and the rationale behind it. We are considering the decision, the grounds for the refusal and a potential legal challenge (Judicial Review).

‘We believe our application for a Development Consent Order to be accurate and robust, and it has met all the requirements. We will continue the development of Aquind Interconnector, and we will be engaging with the relevant parties in the coming weeks.

‘With the ability to transmit up to five per cent of Great Britain’s annual electricity consumption – enough to power nearly 5m British homes – Aquind Interconnector will help reduce the impact of volatile gas and coal prices, which have caused electricity bills to increase this autumn and winter. By reducing the price of energy in the UK, Aquind Interconnector will save individuals and families several billion pounds over the first 25 years of its operation.

‘The interconnector will help integrate a greater proportion of non-fossil fuel energy sources and intermittent renewables into the GB energy mix, helping meet the UK’s 2050 Net Zero target by reducing CO2 emissions by 40-70 million tonnes over 25 years.’