Contracts for the converter stations and cable system for Eastern Green Link 3 have been signed in a major milestone for what is described as the UK’s biggest electricity transmission project.
The agreements with Hitachi Energy for the converter stations in Aberdeenshire and West Norfolk and with NKT for the subsea and underground cable system total nearly £3bn, the companies said.
The deals cover delivery of a 690km HVDC link, including about 580km offshore between Scotland and England, capable of transporting power for two million homes, according to the project partners.
Once operational, EGL3 will help cut constraint costs by removing transmission bottlenecks so cleaner electricity can reach demand centres.
The contracts highlight the importance of a resilient supply chain for major grid infrastructure, the partners stated.
“Signing these contracts is a major milestone for EGL3 and for the joint venture between National Grid and SSEN Transmission. By working with world-class supply chain partners, we are investing in infrastructure that will reduce constraint costs, strengthen energy security and ensure more clean electricity can flow to homes and businesses across the country, while also supporting jobs and economic growth in the regions,” said Mark Brackley, project director for Eastern Green Link 3 at National Grid.
“EGL3 is a vital investment in the UK’s future energy system. By securing these major contracts, we’re taking a decisive step towards strengthening the electricity network so more clean, homegrown power can flow from where it’s generated to where it’s needed most. This project will play a key role in cutting constraint costs, supporting consumer affordability and delivering long-term economic benefits, while building the resilient infrastructure required to meet the UK’s energy security and clean power ambitions,” added James Johnson, EGL3’s deputy project director.
“We’re proud that Hitachi Energy’s HVDC technology and execution capabilities will play a central role in EGL3.This link is a critical step in strengthening the UK’s transmission backbone, making sure renewable power reaches the grid when and where it’s needed – maximizing its potential and supporting a more secure and sustainable energy system. What truly sets this partnership apart is its focus on long-term planning, that enables Hitachi Energy to scale our human capabilities, coordinate with suppliers, and align the entire value chain well in advance. This is how we ensure predictability, manage complexity, and ultimately deliver high-performance transmission projects safely, on time, and within budget, together,” stated Niklas Persson, managing director of Hitachi Energy’s business unit grid integration.
“Signing the contract for EGL3 is a significant milestone for NKT and for the reinforcement of Great Britain’s power system. We are proud to take this important step together with National Grid and SSEN Transmission, strengthening our long-term collaboration and reflecting the trust our partners place in NKT as we work to advance the UK’s energy transition. With our proven expertise in HVDC technology, we look forward to delivering the cable systems that will reinforce the grid and support a cleaner, more reliable energy future,” commented Claes Westerlind, president and chief executive of NKT.
EGL3 has planning in principle for the converter station site in Scotland and has completed two rounds of public consultation in England, with a planning application due later this year.