SP Transmission (SPT) and National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) has chosen GE Vernova's Grid Solutions business and MYTILINEOS as preferred suppliers in the development of a new subsea electricity superhighway for the project’s two required HVDC converter stations.

GE Vernova is partnering with MYTILINEOS to provide the engineering works and technology for the HVDC convertor stations which form the terminals for the HVDC cable and convert the direct current to the alternating current used in the onshore transmission network. This latest milestone is another significant step and follows on from the recent announcement of Prysmian Group being selected as the exclusive preferred bidder for the HVDC cabling contract.

The HVDC cable system is approximately 190km in length with converter stations at either end to connect it into the existing transmission network infrastructure. HVDC technology provides the most efficient and reliable means of transmitting large amounts of power over long distances subsea.

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This project is also a major economic win for the UK. With our partner selections, there will be significant local content provided by UK based manufacturing, engineering, and construction industries. GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business alone will be providing HVDC valves and controls systems, as well as HVDC transformers from their facilities in Staffordshire, UK, supporting the commitment to recruit and invest in the employees needed to deliver growth in this industry.

Following final approval of regulatory allowances from Ofgem, full contracts are expected to be complete later this year with construction work due to begin in 2024. The project’s targeted operational date is 2029.

EGL1 is a key part of the significant amount of new network infrastructure required for the UK to reach net zero and will play a critical role in supporting the nation’s future security of supply, reducing dependence and price exposure to volatile global wholesale gas markets. National Grid’s research1 has also found that there will be an estimated 400,000 job opportunities for a net zero energy workforce by 2050, including around 150,000 jobs anticipated in Scotland and the North of England.