Cable manufacturer NKT has been selected as the preferred bidder to supply the high-voltage direct current (HVDC) cable system for the Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3) project, a major interconnector between Scotland and England. The project is led by a joint venture between Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Transmission (SSEN Transmission) and National Grid Electricity Transmission.
The contract covers a 525-kilovolt transmission system with a total estimated route length of 680 kilometres, including both subsea and onshore sections. This interconnector aims to enhance the UK’s capacity to transmit electricity between production areas and consumption centres amid a structural shift in the energy mix.
A key component of the UK’s energy infrastructure
Eastern Green Link 3 is part of a large-scale investment programme in the United Kingdom designed to upgrade national electricity infrastructure. The project aims to establish a new backbone of the grid, capable of transporting electricity generated in Scotland to areas of high demand in England.
Mark Brackley, Project Director at National Grid Electricity Transmission, stated that selecting NKT is “a major milestone for EGL3”, highlighting its role in transporting locally generated energy to British consumers. He also noted the project’s contribution to the stability and affordability of the national electricity system.
A large-scale project for NKT
NKT, based in Denmark, further strengthens its position in high-voltage power transmission projects, particularly in the UK market. The company has previously worked with SSEN Transmission and National Grid Electricity Transmission on other subsea cabling projects.
Claes Westerlind, President and CEO of NKT, said the selection reflects the company’s ability to deliver large-scale turnkey HVDC projects. The contract adds to a growing portfolio of projects aimed at reinforcing power interconnections across Northern Europe.
A pre-contractual milestone
The “preferred bidder” status now allows the parties to finalise commercial terms, including procurement, engineering and cable installation aspects. No specific timeline has yet been announced regarding the final contract signing or construction start.
James Johnson, Deputy Project Director for EGL3 at SSEN Transmission, said the announcement marks tangible progress in developing infrastructure designed to support power transmission between the two nations.
