Siemens Energy has been selected as the preferred bidder to supply converter stations for the Eastern Green Link 4 (EGL4) subsea electricity transmission project, a major infrastructure initiative aimed at strengthening energy connectivity between Scotland and England.
National Grid and SP Energy Networks confirmed the appointment on Wednesday, describing it as a key step forward in the development of the 2GW high-voltage direct current (HVDC) link. The project will transport renewable energy between Fife in Scotland and West Norfolk in England via a 530km subsea cable.
“Reaching preferred bidder stage is a key milestone for EGL4 and a sign of the progress being made on this vital infrastructure project,” said James Goode, project director for EGL4 at National Grid. “Siemens Energy brings strong expertise in HVDC converter station delivery and will be a critical partner as we prepare to build this subsea superhighway.”
Siemens will deliver converter stations at both ends of the route, which will convert electricity between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) to enable efficient long-distance transmission. The company was selected following a competitive procurement process. A final contract award is expected at a later stage.
Iain Adams, deputy project director and head of converter delivery at SP Energy Networks, added: “We’re pleased to be partnering again with National Grid to deliver EGL4 and are excited to welcome Siemens Energy and the wealth of expertise they will bring to this project.”
EGL4 is part of a broader programme of five proposed subsea links between Scotland and England aimed at easing grid constraints and supporting the UK’s transition to renewable energy. Together, the links are expected to deliver enough electricity to power up to 10 million homes.
Construction of EGL4 is expected to begin in 2029, with the link scheduled to enter operation in 2033.
Mark Pilling, vice president of grid solutions Europe at Siemens Energy, said the appointment reflects the company’s continued role in UK grid expansion efforts. “Eastern Green Link 4 is a vital project to enhance the UK’s energy framework,” he said. “Being selected as preferred bidder builds on our strong collaboration with National Grid and SP Energy Networks.”
Siemens Energy was also recently named a key supplier under National Grid’s £59 billion HVDC supply chain framework and SP Energy Networks’ £5.4 billion strategic investment programme.
