Interkonnektioner

Interkonnektioner, or interconnections, are junctions and facilities that connect two or more networks, systems, or geographic regions to enable the transfer of energy, information, or goods. The term is used across sectors such as electricity, telecommunications, data networks, and transport. Interconnections can be physical, such as cables, transmission lines, pipelines, and routes, or logical, such as interfaces, protocols, and commercial agreements that allow exchange between networks.

In electricity, interconnectors link national or regional grids to enable cross-border electricity trade, improve system reliability, and facilitate the integration of renewable generation. They may be built as alternating current (AC) or high-voltage direct current (HVDC) links, and their capacity is typically measured in megawatts or gigawatts. Operation is often governed by regional market rules and balancing mechanisms to coordinate supply and demand across borders.

In telecommunications, interconnection refers to the linking of separate networks to allow end users on one network to communicate with users on another. This requires interconnection agreements, settlement arrangements, and agreed technical interfaces. Interconnections underpin the ability to place calls, send messages, and exchange data between different service providers, supporting competition and network reach.

In data networks, interconnections occur at Internet exchange points (IXPs) and through peering and transit arrangements, enabling efficient routing and reduced latency between networks. These arrangements influence network performance, redundancy, and the overall resilience of the Internet.

In transport and logistics, interconnections describe points where different transport networks or modes connect, such as ports, terminals, or intermodal transfer points, enabling the movement of people and goods across modes.

Regulation and security are important considerations for interconnections, aiming to ensure fair access, pricing transparency, reliability, and protection against disruptions or cyber threats.