When we think about energy security, most of us think about power stations, wind farms and roof-top solar, but behind the scenes the UK relies heavily on a hidden network of undersea power cables (or interconnectors). These cables link us to mainland Europe, allowing the UK to import and export electricity. While this system is great to balance supply and demand, it also leaves us vulnerable to outages and soaring energy costs.
Why Britain’s Undersea Cables Are at Risk
- Physical vulnerability
Undersea cables are exposed to damage from ships anchors, fishing trawlers and natural events like undersea landslides. Repairs can take weeks or months, due to complications from working undersea, causing lengthy disruption to supply.
- Geopolitical Tensions
In times of international strains, energy interconnectors become bargaining chips. Also, if Europe face their own energy pressures, the UK may not always be able to rely on imports when European demand peaks.
- Security Threats
There’s growing concern about sabotage, undersea cables are difficult to monitor and protect, making them a tempting target in hybrid warfare strategies.
- Overreliance on Imports
Around 10% of Britain’s electricity comes from interconnectors, the more dependent we are on these links, the more exposed we become to external risks and threats.
Why Solar Offers a Safer Alternative
The good news is we don’t have to rely on fragile undersea infrastructure for our future energy needs. Solar power provides a secure, homegrown solution. Solar panels generate electricity right where it’s used, leaving no need for costly imports. Pair your solar panels with battery storage and an emergency power supply, and you can keep the lights on even when the grid faces disruption. Solar battery storage gives you round the clock access to free electricity generated by your solar panels, even when its dark outside and your panels aren’t generating. By installing a solar PV system, you produce your own free electricity, reducing reliance on expensive grid electricity and protecting you from future price hikes.
Power in Your Hands
Britain’s undersea cables will remain an important part of the energy mix, but they highlight just how fragile our current system can be. By switching to solar, households and businesses take back control of their energy, ensuring greater security, stability and lower prices – no matter what’s happening under the sea.
At SolarTherm UK, we’ve been helping homeowners across Essex, Kent and the wider South East generate their own free electricity for over 15 years. Our MCS-certified installers will help guide you from initial enquiry to installation to first class, long-lasting aftercare.
Ready to Start Your Solar Journey?
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
