National Grid Electricity Transmission and SP Energy Networks have taken a major step forward in the development of the Eastern Green Link 4 (EGL4) project, a new subsea electricity 'superhighway', by naming Siemens Energy as the preferred bidder for its two vital high voltage direct current (HVDC) converter stations.

EGL4 is a proposed 2GW HVDC electricity link designed to transport clean, home-grown energy between Fife, Scotland, and West Norfolk, England. This ambitious project involves a 530km high voltage subsea cable, which will significantly boost the UK's energy capacity and enhance security by facilitating the movement of renewable power to where it is most needed. Much of the UK's new offshore and onshore wind generation is concentrated in or around Scotland, and new long-distance, bi-directional subsea infrastructure like EGL4 is essential to strengthen Britain's energy independence and reduce reliance on expensive imported fossil fuels.

The selection of Siemens Energy, which recently secured a place on National Grid's £59 billion HVDC supply chain framework and SP Energy Networks' £5.4 billion Strategic Agreement, follows an extensive competitive procurement process. This preferred bidder status marks a crucial phase for the project's delivery ahead of the full contract award. EGL4 is one of five proposed subsea links between Scotland and England, which collectively will be capable of powering up to 10 million homes.

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James Goode, Project Director for Eastern Green Link 4 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. EGL4 will help create the capacity our electricity system needs for the future, connecting clean, home-grown energy to homes and businesses and strengthening the UK's energy security."

Iain Adams, Deputy Project Director and Head of Converter Delivery for Eastern Green Link 4 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 and the wealth of expertise they will bring to this project."

Mark Pilling, Vice President of Grid Solutions Europe at Siemens Energy, commented: "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 recently concluded its second stage of public consultation at both ends of the link, with feedback informing the project's development. A planning application in Scotland is expected during late summer 2025, followed by an application for development consent to the Planning Inspectorate in England during 2026. Construction is currently anticipated to begin in 2029, with the link expected to become operational in 2033. The decision to announce a preferred bidder for the converter stations does not pre-empt or prejudice any decision on the project's Development Consent Order application.