PS23424 - Interconnection strategy and development of a post-2030 ambition - MC

***** THIS IS AN AWARD NOTICE, NOT A CALL FOR COMPETITION *****

This procurement is being concluded following a mini competition under the Crown Commercial Services - RM6126 - Research and Insights DPS

Requirement

The two workstreams of this project are as follows:

A. Interconnection strategy and meshed offshore grids

- Carrying out a literature review of existing evidence and research into the future of interconnection; - Use this data to understand the impact of increased interconnection on the following: o Economic: assess the costs and benefits to consumers of additional interconnection and OHAs o Security of supply: assess the impact, costs and risks of additional interconnection and OHAs in providing system security in comparison to additional domestic generation o Decarbonisation: assess how additional interconnection and OHAs, will contribute to HMG's post-2030 decarbonisation goals - Carrying out a review on individual connecting country policies and approaches, together with European Commission policies, and assessing how these fit in with GB's plans for interconnection; - Reviewing information and work to date on locational pricing.

B. Post-2030 update for interconnection

- Carrying out desk-based research on EU countries' decarbonisation goals and any effect this may have on existing analysis - Engaging with developers on their longer-term plans for developing further interconnection and offshore hybrid assets (OHAs) to provide an assessment of the interconnection pipeline.

The findings will then be combined to produce a report synthesising available evidence on the issues in scope, as well as highlighting gaps in the evidence base and potential areas for future research.