TenneT looks to optical networking to communicate with offshore grid assets
Image: TenneT
Dutch TSO Tennet has selected Nokia to deliver optical networking technology for eight new 2GW grid connection platforms in the North Sea.
Nokia is to supply its 1830 photonic service switch (PSS) DWDM solution to support long-distance transmission up to 300 km to connect the offshore sites to TenneT’s onshore telecommunications infrastructure.
With this TenneT should be enabled to monitor and manage these remote platforms to ensure continuous, reliable energy transmission.
Marco Kuijpers, director Large Projects Offshore at TenneT, said in a statement that as the offshore energy infrastructure is expanded, connectivity becomes more important than ever.
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“The standardised, mission-critical optical network delivered by Nokia plays a central role in enabling the seamless operation and management of our 2GW platforms, allowing us to operate remotely,” he said.
“With partnerships like this, Nokia is helping us towards a more independent energy supply and to advance towards the global goals for tripled renewable energy deployment set during the COP28 climate talks.”
The 2GW programme is an innovative model in energy transmission aimed at creating a more efficient, standardised approach to delivering offshore wind energy.
TenneT has commissioned three consortia – Petrofac and Hitachi Energy, GE Vernova-Seatrium and GE Vernova-McDermott – to deliver the 2GW offshore converter platforms and onshore grid land stations, due for commissioning in 2029.
As part of the deployment, Nokia will deliver advanced amplification and transponder technologies to support long distance, single-span unrepeatered transmission of up to 400km.
The solution includes Nokia’s extended reach amplification systems to maintain reliable optical transport across the challenging offshore environment.
Nokia’s support services will also provide comprehensive design, testing, and operational care, ensuring the network meets TenneT’s standards for resilience and performance during each phase of construction and long-term operation.
James Watt, senior vice president and general manager of Optical Networks business at Nokia, said: “By delivering standardised, high performance optical networking technology that meets the unique demands of offshore environments, Nokia is supporting TenneT in providing reliable green energy to millions of homes across the Netherlands and Europe.”
The implementation of the solution will begin in early 2025, aligning with the initial construction phases of the 2GW platforms and to support TenneT’s timeline for full operational readiness by 2029.
