Wedoany.com Report-Jul. 21, National Grid Electricity Transmission and SP Energy Networks have named Siemens Energy as the preferred bidder for two high-voltage direct current (HVDC) converter stations for the Eastern Green Link 4 (EGL4) project. This 2-gigawatt subsea electricity link will connect Fife, Scotland, and West Norfolk, England, via a 530-kilometer high-voltage cable, enhancing energy capacity and security.

Eastern Green Link 4 Signing with Scottish Power.

The EGL4 project aims to transport clean energy, primarily from Scotland’s growing offshore and onshore wind farms, to areas of high demand. The initiative addresses the limited capacity of the existing transmission network, supporting Britain’s energy needs with renewable sources. Siemens Energy, recently included in National Grid’s £59 billion HVDC supply chain framework and SP Energy Networks’ £5.4 billion Strategic Agreement, brings extensive expertise to deliver critical infrastructure components.

James Goode, project director for EGL4 at National Grid, stated: “Reaching preferred bidder stage is a key milestone for EGL4 and a sign of the progress being made on this vital infrastructure project. Siemens Energy brings strong expertise in HVDC converter station delivery and will be a critical partner as we prepare to build this subsea superhighway.”

Iain Adams, deputy project director and head of Converter Delivery for EGL4 at SP Energy Networks, added: “The east coast of Britain is playing a vital role in transforming the electricity network as we build another bi-directional link between Scotland and England, helping to reduce constraints on the network, increase energy security and promote economic growth. We’re pleased to be partnering again with National Grid to deliver EGL4 and are excited to welcome Siemens Energy and the wealth of expertise they will bring to this project.”

Mark Pilling, vice president of Grid Solutions Europe at Siemens Energy, noted: “Investing in grid infrastructure is essential to meet increasing electricity demands and transition to a cleaner energy future. Eastern Green Link 4 is a vital project to enhance the UK’s energy framework. Being selected as preferred bidder builds on our strong collaboration with National Grid and SP Energy Networks, where we leverage our technological expertise to support their ambitious efforts to upgrade and expand the UK grid.”

EGL4 is one of five proposed subsea links between Scotland and England, collectively capable of powering up to 10 million homes. Following its second public consultation, the project is incorporating feedback to refine its development, with a planning application in Scotland expected in late summer 2025 and a consent application in England in 2026. Construction is planned to start in 2029, with the link operational by 2033.