New Eastern Green Link 1 Visitor Centre opens doors to local communities

Local students and community groups now have a new opportunity to learn about the technology and skills behind Great Britain's electricity network thanks to Eastern Green Link 1 (EGL1), a joint venture between National Grid and SP Energy Networks. EGL1 is a 196km, two-gigawatt high voltage direct current (HVDC) subsea electricity superhighway under construction between East Lothian, Scotland, and County Durham, England. Once completed it will allow electricity to flow in either direction between the two countries and be capable of transporting enough electricity to power around two million homes.

On Friday, 25 September, Grahame Morris, MP for Easington, officially opened the visitor centre at the Hawthorn Pit substation site, alongside special guests from National Grid and SP Energy Networks.

Developed by National Grid as part of EGL1's community engagement programme, the visitor centre has been designed to help visitors better understand how major electricity infrastructure is planned, built and operated, while showcasing the technology and engineering that will support the EGL1 project.

Through a range of interactive exhibits, visitors can learn how electricity is generated, discover how supply and demand are balanced across the network, and explore the technology behind major energy infrastructure projects. Interactive activities and a construction simulator will also give visitors the opportunity to experience some of the skills involved in delivering projects such as EGL1. 

Alongside providing information about the project, the visitor centre has been created to support education and skills development in the local area. School and college visits will give students the opportunity to see STEM subjects brought to life and gain a better understanding of the skills, training and career pathways available across the energy industry.

The centre aims to inspire young people to explore careers in engineering, construction and the energy sector, while helping visitors understand how National Grid and SP Energy Networks are working together through EGL1 to connect renewable electricity and strengthen Great Britain's electricity network.

Grahame Morris MP, Member of Parliament for Easington, said: "This visitor hub is a fantastic addition for East Durham and will give local people the opportunity to learn more about an important project taking shape in our community.

"What excites me most is the opportunity it creates for young people. By giving students a closer look at the skills, technology and engineering behind projects like EGL1, we can help inspire the next generation to consider careers in industries that will play a vital role in our future.

"Our area has a proud industrial heritage and a talented workforce. Initiatives like this help ensure local people can see the opportunities being created as we build the energy network of tomorrow."

Nik Davies, National Grid Project Director, said: "The visitor centre gives local people the chance to get closer to the project and see first-hand the technology, skills and engineering involved in delivering major energy infrastructure.

"We're particularly excited to welcome schools and colleges, helping young people understand the wide range of opportunities available in the energy sector while learning more about how projects like EGL1 will support the transition to cleaner sources of electricity.

"Projects like EGL1 rely on hundreds of skilled people, from engineers and project managers to environmental specialists and construction teams. We hope the centre will encourage the next generation to consider careers in these fields and show the role they could play in building the energy system of the future."

Matthew Barton, HVDC Portfolio Director at SP Energy Networks, said: "The visitor centre will bring the EGL1 project to life, giving local communities a unique insight into the innovation, engineering and expertise needed to deliver critical energy infrastructure. It’s our firm belief the centre will inspire the electrical engineers of tomorrow."

The visitor centre is now open to schools, colleges and community groups, providing an opportunity to learn more about the project and the people, technology and expertise helping to modernise Great Britain's electricity network.

The opening of the facility forms part of the EGL1 project's ongoing commitment to engage with local communities throughout construction, helping people better understand the infrastructure being delivered by National Grid and SP Energy Networks to connect more renewable energy and support the country's electricity network.