An ambitious series of cables linking the National Grids of both France and the UK - using the Channel Tunnel - has transmitted power for the first time.

The multi-million pound ElecLink service is designed to provide power security to the two countries and the use of more renewable energy.

The laying of the cables was completed in May, and the first tests successfully carried out this month.

Power will be able to flow from the French equivalent of the National Grid - RTE - to a substation in Sellindge, between Ashford and Folkestone.

Testing will continue this month with extensive safety checks taking place.

ElecLink is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eurotunnel operator GetLink.

Steven Moore, CEO of ElecLink, said: "The tests mark a momentous step. The first electrons have now circulated successfully between France and the UK. A further series of tests will be carried out by the end of September before we seek final approvals from the security authorities.

"We aim for commercial commissioning by mid-2022.”

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