European transmission operator TenneT has selected Nokia to provide optical networking technology for eight new 2GW offshore converter platforms in the Dutch North Sea.

Nokia will deploy its 1830 PSS DWDM optical network, connecting the offshore sites to TenneT's onshore telecommunications infrastructure. According to the companies, the network will enable TenneT to monitor and manage these remote platforms, ensuring continuous, reliable energy transmission.

In addition, Nokia will supply advanced amplification and transponder technologies to support long-distance, single-span unrepeated transmission of up to 400km (248.5 miles). The deployment features Nokia's extended-reach amplification systems, designed to ensure dependable optical transport across challenging offshore environments.

Nokia will also deliver design, testing, and operational support services to ensure that the network meets TenneT standards throughout construction and long-term operation.

The telco will begin implementing the networking solution in early 2025 to align with the platform's initial construction phase. According to the companies, this will allow for early integration and rigorous communication system testing to support TenneT's timeline for full operational readiness of the first platform by 2029.

TenneT has commissioned three consortia — Petrofac and Hitachi Energy consortium, GE Vernova-Seatrium consortium, and GE Vernova-McDermott consortium — to deliver the 2GW offshore converter platforms and onshore grid land stations.

TenneT selected the consortia in its first large-scale EU tender in June. The company plans to launch a large-scale HVDC cable tender for at least ten connection systems for wind energy transmission from sea to land in Germany and the Netherlands.

TenneT currently has a connection capacity of 2.8GW in the Dutch North Sea.