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National Grid and SP Energy Networks have selected a consortium to deliver the next phase of works for a £2.5 billion subsea transmission cable.
The Eastern Green Link 1 (EGL1) will be a 525kV, 2GW high voltage direct current (HVDC) link from East Lothian in Scotland to County Durham in England.
Once completed, the 190km cable is expected to carry enough power to supply more than 2 million homes across the UK.
In a joint announcement on Tuesday (12 September), National Grid Electricity Transmission and SP Transmission revealed they had selected US-based GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business, as well as Greek company Mytilineos, as the preferred suppliers for EGL1’s two required HVDC converter stations.
The converter stations will be located at either end of the cable to connect it into the existing transmission network. These stations will form the terminals for the HVDC cable and convert the direct current to the alternating current used in the onshore transmission network.
The announcement added: “This project is also a major economic win for the UK. With our partner selections, there will be significant local content provided by UK based manufacturing, engineering, and construction industries.
“GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business alone will be providing HVDC valves and controls systems, as well as HVDC transformers from their facilities in Staffordshire, UK, supporting the commitment to recruit and invest in the employees needed to deliver growth in this industry.”
Following final approval of regulatory allowances from Ofgem, full contracts are expected to be complete later this year. Construction is due to begin on EGL1 next year, with a targeted operational date of 2029.
EGL1’s project director Peter Roper said: “This is a critical time for the energy sector as it drives the transition to net zero.
“GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business and Mytilineos as preferred suppliers are leading specialists in this high technology field and bring considerable expertise in delivering the infrastructure required to meet the UK’s future energy needs and net zero targets.”
Minister for nuclear and networks Andrew Bowie said: “With investment in renewables rising by 500% since 2010, we must continue to transform our electricity network to ensure we can move power from where it is generated to where it is needed.
“Projects like this will do just that and help us to grow the economy, reduce bills, achieve net zero and strengthen our energy security.”
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