Connecting the world: long distance transmission as a key enabler of a zero carbon world

Connecting the World: Long-Distance Transmission as a Key Enabler of a Zero-Carbon Economy, explores how international and cross-regional transmission lines can accelerate the global shift to net-zero power systems. With electricity demand set to more than double by mid-century and renewable generation unevenly distributed across regions, long-distance interconnectors offer a powerful solution to connect low-cost clean energy to where it’s needed most.

The Global Potential of Clean Power Through Long-Distance Interconnectors

ETC analysis shows that a small number of high-impact international links, such as Morocco-UK, Australia-Singapore, and Canada-USA, could supply up to 15% of global electricity demand, cut 1.8 gigatonnes of CO₂ annually, and generate $100 billion in savings each year.

The report highlights the importance of HVDC technology, storage in system balancing, and strategic coordination between countries to unlock this potential. The ETC argues that challenges around cost, security, and permitting can be overcome through long-term planning, political cooperation, and support for early demonstrator projects.