National Grid has awarded key parts of its £59bn High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) supply chain framework, a strategic initiative aimed at integrating more clean energy generation into the UK’s power grid.
Launched in 2023, the HVDC supply chain framework seeks to establish long-term relationships with suppliers and secure critical equipment for current and future energy projects. This framework is a crucial step in National Grid’s ongoing efforts to modernize the country’s power infrastructure, particularly through renewable energy integration.
The framework is divided into two main segments: HVDC cables and HVDC converters. Six suppliers have been awarded positions for the HVDC cable supply, valued at approximately £21.3bn, while four suppliers will provide HVDC converter systems, valued at approximately £24.6bn. Both frameworks will support both confirmed and anticipated projects, which are key to the energy transition.
The successful suppliers for the HVDC cable framework include the Hellenic & Jan De Nul Consortium, LS Cable & System, NKT Cables, Prysmian Group, Sumitomo Electric, and Taihan Cable & Solution. Meanwhile, the HVDC converter systems framework has been awarded to GE Vernova, Hitachi Energy, Mitsubishi Electric, and Siemens Energy.
Each of the contracts is set for a five-year period, with an option for a three-year extension. The framework will support major projects, including the Eastern Green Link 4, Sealink, and Lionlink, among others.
Carl Trowell, President of Strategic Infrastructure at National Grid, described the development as a significant milestone. “This is another exciting milestone in delivering the greatest overhaul of the grid in a generation – The Great Grid Upgrade,” he said. “We are committed to building the infrastructure that will enable our country’s current and future energy needs, at pace. This framework allows us to harness National Grid’s scale to access global supply chains, drive efficiencies, foster innovative technologies, and contribute to the UK’s economic prosperity.”
Ben Wilson, President of National Grid Ventures, highlighted the company’s growing role in the international energy infrastructure landscape. “National Grid is already the largest operator of subsea power cables in the world, the majority of which we delivered in the last six years,” Wilson noted. “World record-breaking sites like Viking Link and pioneering projects like LionLink need an ambitious approach for every aspect of their delivery, including with our suppliers. Today’s announcement is an important step which strengthens our supply chain.”
The suppliers selected for the HVDC framework will also support the timely delivery of major energy projects that are pivotal to the UK’s energy security and transition to renewable energy sources.
Neil Beardsmore, Executive Global Commercial Leader for HVDC at GE Vernova, emphasized the role of electrification in achieving net-zero goals. “Electrification is the cornerstone of a net-zero future, and at GE Vernova, we are committed to accelerating this transition by delivering integrated solutions that enable large-scale electrification,” Beardsmore said.
The partnership also drew praise from Hellenic Cables. Kostas Savvakis, General Manager, stated, “This agreement strengthens our commitment to supporting the UK’s energy transition and offshore wind ambitions. We are proud to be part of this critical framework, providing world-class HVDC cable solutions.”
Jan De Nul’s Director of Subsea Cables, Wouter Vermeersch, added: “We are proud to partner with National Grid through this framework for strategic HVDC interconnections. The agreement confirms our position as World Builders of the energy transition through providing vital power cable links.
As National Grid continues to implement its ambitious plans, the new framework plays a crucial role in ensuring the delivery of projects designed to enhance energy security and accelerate the UK’s transition to a low-carbon future.
