Ofgem has shortlisted five bidders to compete for ownership and operation of offshore transmission links for three North Sea wind farms off Great Britain’s east coast.
The regulator said the bidders are vying for assets connecting East Anglia 3, Inch Cape and Dogger Bank C, with a combined estimated value of £3.5billion.
The shortlisted bidders are DTP, Equitix, GSC, JL and TCP.
Ofgem added that the 13th tender round features its largest field of bidders since 2019, highlighting growing investor interest in the offshore transmission owner (OFTO) regime.
The pre-built links include onshore and offshore cables, converter stations and substations that connect offshore wind generation to Great Britain’s power grid.
The five bidders will now be invited to submit formal tenders before Ofgem selects preferred bidders to receive transmission licences for the assets.
“Recently, we’ve seen how geopolitical events can impact both energy security and investments.
“Ofgem’s OFTO regime not only helps boost British energy security but also offers investors a safe and steady asset for their portfolios,” said Beatrice Filkin, director of major projects at Ofgem.
“Through the OFTO regime, Ofgem is attracting vital investment into the UK to support growth and deliver a stable, secure energy system powered by clean electricity, while also ensuring consumers get a good deal.”
Ofgem said the OFTO regime has attracted more than £10billion of investment since 2009 across links serving 28 offshore wind farms.
The regulator expects up to £6billion of OFTO assets to be brought to market each year to 2030 and plans to launch Tender Round 14 later this year.