Despite challenges from weather, environmental approvals, and global disruptions, Energinet finished the grid connection on schedule. Søren Dupont Kristensen, Energinet’s chief operating officer, stated: “We are now ready with our part of the project, so that we can help the green electricity out into the country.”
The connection infrastructure includes two 220kV substations at Volder Mark and Idomlund, linked by a 30km twin cable system. To comply with environmental restrictions, seven kilometers of cables were drilled underground. Chief project manager Martin Hinrichsen explained: “The cables are buried in the ground… but electricity connections are absolutely crucial for us to create an electricity system with more renewable energy.”
Hinrichsen highlighted the project’s tight timeline due to stork nesting restrictions and a late 2022 approval, requiring 264 drillings to protect habitats. He added: “I am really proud of the great effort that the entire team has made.” Construction, which began in January 2023, involved moving 95,000 cubic meters of soil and laying 150 cable drums, each weighing 25 tonnes.
The Idomlund substation, one of Denmark’s largest at 172,500m², includes a 65,500m² section dedicated to the Thor project. The wind farm is set to begin generating electricity in 2026, with full commissioning expected by the end of 2027, supporting Denmark’s renewable energy goals.
Energinet’s timely completion ensures the Thor wind farm will contribute significantly to Denmark’s sustainable energy system, reinforcing the country’s commitment to expanding offshore wind capacity.
