Danish cable manufacturer NKT has been selected as the preferred bidder to supply the 525kV high-voltage direct current (HVDC) power cable system for the Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3) interconnector, a major transmission project between Scotland and England.
The 680km onshore and offshore connection is being developed by a joint venture between SSEN Transmission and National Grid Electricity Transmission. The project is part of the UK’s broader efforts to expand and decarbonise its power transmission network.
“We are honoured to be selected as the preferred bidder for EGL3, a key project in the upgrade and decarbonisation of Great Britain’s power system,” said Claes Westerlind, president and chief executive of NKT. “This milestone continues our collaboration with the two transmission owners and underlines our commitment to the UK grid.”
The preferred bidder designation marks a significant step forward for the project, which is expected to improve the transfer of renewable electricity across the country and enhance energy security.
“Confirming NKT as preferred bidder for the cable system is a major milestone for EGL3,” said Mark Brackley, project director at National Grid. “The project will form a vital new part of the UK’s electricity backbone, carrying clean, homegrown energy to where it is needed most and helping to deliver a more affordable and secure energy future.”
James Johnson, deputy project director at SSEN Transmission, added: “Appointing NKT as preferred bidder for the subsea cable system marks a significant milestone for EGL3. The project will be vital in unlocking Scotland’s vast renewable energy resources, ensuring they can reach homes and businesses across Great Britain, while strengthening the resilience of the transmission network.”
The parties will now enter contractual negotiations with the goal of finalising an agreement. Financial terms of the prospective contract were not disclosed.
