NKT named preferred bidder to deliver subsea cable for Eastern Green Link 3 project

The joint venture between National Grid Electricity Transmission and SSEN Transmission has named Denmark-based NKT as the preferred bidder to deliver the high-voltage direct current (HVDC) cable system for the Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3) project.

EGL3 is set to become one of the UK’s largest ever electricity transmission projects, providing a 2GW subsea link between the north of Scotland and England, transmitting enough clean power to supply around two million homes.

The 525kV HVDC link will run between Longside in Aberdeenshire and Walpole in Norfolk, using around 680km of subsea and underground cables, with NKT’s preferred bidder status following a competitive procurement process. They will supply and install the HVDC cable system, a critical part of enabling the project to efficiently move large volumes of clean electricity over long distances.

Once operational, EGL3 will strengthen the UK’s energy security, reduce costs to consumers by easing network congestion, and play a central role in delivering the UK’s clean energy targets.

Claes Westerlind, President and CEO of NKT, said:

We are honoured to be selected as the preferred bidder for EGL 3, a key project in the upgrade and decarbonisation of Great Britain’s power system. This milestone marks the continuation of our strong collaboration with SSEN Transmission and National Grid, and demonstrates our long-term commitment to supporting the development of the UK’s power transmission grid through our extensive experience in large-scale HVDC turnkey projects.

Mark Brackley, Project Director for Eastern Green Link 3 at National Grid Electricity Transmission, said:

Confirming NKT as preferred bidder for the cable system is a major milestone for EGL3. The project will form a vital new part of the UK’s electricity backbone, carrying clean, homegrown energy to where it’s needed most and helping to deliver a more affordable and secure energy future.

James Johnson, Deputy Project Director for Eastern Green Link 3 at SSEN Transmission, said:

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. This announcement is another important step as we work to deliver a network for net zero.

EGL3 has already received planning in principle for the converter site in Scotland through the Netherton Hub and has recently undergone two rounds of public consultation in relation to the planned works in England, with the associated planning application expected to be submitted in 2026. Subject to approval by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, construction is due to begin in 2028, with the link expected to be operational by 2033.

The announcement of a preferred bidder does not influence or prejudge the outcome of any planning decisions related to the project.