The causes of the faults have not yet been found.
In order to minimise the risk of further faults, a reduction of the load on the SK4 interconnector has been necessary. Consequently, maximum capacity on the SK interconnection has been reduced from 1700 to 1450 MW.
The technical solution chosen for Skagerrak 4 means that capacity in any given situation is generally asymmetric, allowing for loads of 1450 MW in the primary direction and 950 MW in the secondary direction. It is possible to reverse the primary and secondary directions, but it takes a few days to complete this switching in the installations.
Statnett and Energinet are working along several tracks to increase capacity:
- Assessing the direction which, based on socio-economic criteria, should be the primary direction, and which should be the secondary direction.
- Working to increase capacity in the secondary direction to the level of the primary direction.
- Taking samples of the existing SK4 onshore cable on the Danish side to get a better indication of the condition of the cable, providing a sound basis for determining if there is a need for further measures. When taking samples, trading capacity is reduced for a few weeks.
The market will be informed via NUCS reports (Nordic Unavailability Collection System) when a decision has been made on the measures to be adopted and in which direction, and any impact on trading capacity has been clarified.