The Aquind interconnector project now faces uncertainty after French authorities denied a key maritime concession in October 2025. This £1.3 billion project aims to connect Normandy and Portsmouth with a cross-channel power cable. Without approval from both France and the UK, the project cannot move forward. Aquind has filed an appeal against the decision.
Opposition Groups Challenge the Project
French campaign group Non à Aquind first raised concerns and later informed UK group Let’s Stop Aquind (LSA) about the appeal in May 2026. LSA continues to oppose the Aquind interconnector project, arguing that it provides no clear consumer benefits, fails to meet grid requirements, and lacks priority from regulators.
- Learn more about Aquind: https://www.aquind.co.uk
Route and Local Impact in Portsmouth
If approved, the cable would come ashore at Eastney and run through Portsmouth before reaching a substation in Lovedean. Critics warn that construction would disrupt a densely populated area, with road closures lasting up to four to five weeks and installation work extending over 18 months.
Government and Defence Concerns
Portsmouth City Council has expressed strong opposition, citing risks of disruption and congestion. The Ministry of Defence has also raised concerns, stating that the project could interfere with operations at HMNB Portsmouth and impact national security.
Regulatory Status and Next Steps
Aquind submitted its Development Consent Order (DCO) application in 2019. The UK government rejected the proposal in 2022, but Aquind overturned that decision in the High Court in 2023. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero continues to review the project, and officials have not announced a final decision date.
