NKT has been chosen as the preferred bidder for the Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3), a high-voltage direct-current (HV DC) interconnector project linking Scotland and England.  

The decision was made by a joint venture (JV) between Scottish Hydro Electric (SSEN) Transmission and National Grid Electricity Transmission. 

SSEN Transmission is responsible for the electricity transmission network in northern Scotland. It maintains and invests in the high-voltage 132kV, 220kV, 275kV, and 400kV electricity transmission network. 

The EGL3 project aims to deliver a 525kV HV DC power cable system stretching approximately 680km across both onshore and offshore cable routes.  

This link will ensure a reliable and clean power supply in the UK by connecting the power grids in Scotland and England. 

NKT president and CEO Claes Westerlind said: “We are honoured to be selected as the preferred bidder for EGL3, 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 Electricity Transmission, and demonstrates our long-term commitment to supporting the development of the UK’s power transmission grid through our extensive experience in large-scale HV DC turnkey projects.” 

The EGL3 transmission link is part of a major UK investment programme aimed at upgrading the domestic electricity transmission network.  

For the two transmission owners involved in the JV, the preferred bidder agreement marks a key step in advancing the power cable project. 

SSEN Transmission EGL3 deputy project director James Johnson 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.” 

The companies are now moving into negotiations, with the aim of finalising a firm contract.

Earlier this month, NKT entered into a contract with Energinet, the Danish transmission system operator, to provide a HV DC cable system for an offshore interconnector, which will link the Bornholm Energy Island to the power grid in Zealand, Denmark.