Contracts for the converter stations and cable system that will make up the Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3) project have been signed. EGL3 will help remove transmission bottlenecks so that electricity can flow to where it is needed by increasing transmission capacity between Scotland and England.
The contracts confirm Hitachi Energy as the delivery partner for the high voltage direct current (HVDC) converter stations in Aberdeenshire, Scotland and West Norfolk, England, and NKT as the delivery partner for the subsea and underground cable that will link the converter stations. Together, these agreements, totalling nearly £3 billion, will see the delivery of a 690km high voltage link, including approximately 580km offshore between Scotland and England.
EGL3 has already received planning in principle for the converter station site in Scotland through the Netherton Hub and has undergone two rounds of public consultation in relation to the planned works in England, with a planning application expected to be submitted later this year. 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 energised in 2033.