Viking Link launches new book to inspire pupils in Lincolnshire

A new STEM-based workbook will be landing in classrooms across Lincolnshire this week to inspire pupils to learn more about clean electricity and the environment.  

Nessa and the Interconnector follows the story of a ten-year-old schoolgirl and her quest to find out more about Lincolnshire’s new Viking Link electricity interconnector and the role it will play in sharing renewable energy between the UK and Denmark for the first time. 

The free workbook, which is aligned to the national curriculum, includes fun illustrations, facts and educational activities, has been created by the project as part of its work with schools along the cable route. 

It is aimed at pupils aged 7 to 11 and copies will be arriving at eight selected schools 23 March 2021.  

The idea to create a children’s book came from Viking Link team members - with many of them even making an appearance in the story!  

Viking Link Project Director Mike Elmer said: “We’re delighted to be working with local pupils to teach them about our project and the vital role it will play in bringing more green energy into the UK. Viking Link will be the longest land and subsea interconnector in the world – providing enough energy to power 1.4 million UK homes. 

Construction on the project began in March 2020. Once complete, Viking Link will stretch for 475miles (765km) under land and sea between Bicker Fen, UK and Revsing, Denmark, enabling the UK to export excess wind power and import renewable energy when the wind isn’t blowing here.  

“By building projects like Viking Link, Britain is becoming a world leader in the development of renewable energy. Nessa and the Interconnector is just one of the ways we will be working with local schools to inspire the next generation to consider exciting and rewarding careers in projects like Viking Link.” 

Viking Link is a joint venture between National Grid and Danish System operator Energinet. It will be the UK’s sixth interconnector and is due to launch in 2023.

National Grid currently operates two links to France, one to Belgium and one to The Netherlands with a new interconnector to Norway which will become operational later this year.  

The project team worked with former headteacher and author David Evans to develop and write the story and create the character of Nessa.  

Mr Evans will be telling pupils more about the story in an introductory video which will be delivered alongside the workbooks. He said: “I am thrilled to have been involved in this book and to have the opportunity to teach pupils about such an exciting project happening in their area. I have spent a lot of time in Lincolnshire, as I have family connections there and have always enjoyed visiting this diverse county. I have used my experiences, to inspire the story and bring Nessa to life.” 

The Viking Link team is committed to supporting schools in the area and has recently donated much needed stationery, outdoor games and PPE to help with the return to classroom learning.  

Nessa and the Interconnector is also available to download online at https://www.nationalgrid.com/our-businesses/national-grid-ventures/viking-link.