UK’s largest transmission project selects HVDC suppliers

The UK’s Eastern Green Link 1 (EGL1) project, which is being called the largest ever transmission project in the UK, has reached a new milestone with the selection of GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business and MYTILINEOS as preferred suppliers for two HVDC converter stations.

The EGL1 project will see the creation of a 525kV, 2GW HVDC (high voltage direct current) subsea transmission cable from Torness in East Lothian, Scotland to Hawthorn Pit in County Durham, England, enabling the transmission of renewable green energy to power more than two million homes across the UK.

Utilities SP Transmission (SPT) and National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) selected the suppliers to provide engineering works and technology for HVDC converter stations, which form the terminals for the HVDC cable and convert the direct current to the alternating current used in the onshore transmission network.

“As the consortium leader, we are delighted to be chosen as a preferred supplier together with our partner MYTILINEOS in the development of a new subsea electricity superhighway, the Eastern Green Link 1 (EGL1) project,” said Philippe Piron, CEO at GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business.

Also on EGL1:
National Grid and SSEN launch UK’s ‘largest ever transmission project’
UK’s largest transmission reinforcement project secures development consent

This latest milestone for the EGL1 project follows the recent announcement of Prysmian Group being selected as the exclusive preferred bidder for the HVDC cabling contract.

The HVDC cable system is approximately 190km in length with converter stations at either end to connect it into the existing transmission network infrastructure.

HVDC technology provides the most efficient and reliable means of transmitting large amounts of power over long distances subsea, according to NGET.

GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business will be providing HVDC valves and controls systems, as well as HVDC transformers from their facilities in Staffordshire, UK.

UK minister for nuclear and networks, Andrew Bowie said: “We have a world class renewables sector that help us power Britain from Britain with reliable, clean and affordable energy for families and businesses.

“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.”

Added EGL1’s project director Peter Roper: “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.”

The upgrade includes three further subsea links between Scotland and England, of which this joint venture is the first.

Following final approval of regulatory allowances from Ofgem, full contracts for EGL1 are expected to be complete later this year with construction work due to begin in 2024. The project’s targeted operational date is 2029.