The first phase of ISLES – a feasibility study – was commissioned in 2010 and the final reports published in April 2012. The study concluded that:
- An interconnected offshore electricity grid network is technically possible and would have significant economic benefits
- The initial ISLES concepts, Northern ISLES and Southern ISLES, could connect 2.8 GW and 3.4 GW of generation respectively by circa 2020
- A number of important challenges remain to be resolved, including operation of energy markets and the promotion of innovation and investment, to facilitate major coordinated development.
- Recommended the need for a second project phase to achieve further action towards implementation.
The ISLES I feasibility study contract was awarded to a consortium led by the Dublin office of RPS Consultants. The comprehensive feasibility study, covered:
– Technology & Infrastructure
– Environment & Planning
– Construction & Deployment
– Cost Benefit Analysis
– Regulation
Indicative Southern ISLES Network Architecture from 2012 Concept Report
Publications
The reports from the ISLES I feasibility study are available to download below:
Environmental Constraints Report Northern Isles
Environmental Constraints Report Northern Isles Appendix 1
Environmental Constraints Report Northern Isles Appendix 2
Environmental Constraints Report Northern Isles Appendix 3
Environmental Constraints Report Northern Isles Appendix 4
Environmental Constraints Report Northern Isles Appendix 5
Environmental Constraints Report Northern Isles Appendix 6
Environmental Constraints Scoping Report Southern Isles
Planning & Environment Processes Northern Isles
Planning & Environment Processes Southern Isles
Route Development & Cost Estimation Report
Route Development & Cost Estimation Report Appendix B
Route Development & Cost Estimation Report Appendix C1
Route Development & Cost Estimation Report Appendix C2
Construction and Deployment
Supply Chain Assessment Report
Cross Jurisdictional Report
Economic and Business Case Report