The Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3) project has taken a key step forward by naming Hitachi Energy as the preferred bidder to deliver its high-voltage direct current (HVDC) converter stations in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, and West Norfolk, England.

The project is the biggest in National Grid Electricity Transmission and SSEN Transmission's portfolio, with a total nominal investment of around £3.7bn.

EGL3 is a new subsea electricity link designed to carry clean power in both directions between the north of Scotland and England. The proposed 2GW, 525kV HVDC link will run between Longside in Aberdeenshire and Walpole in Norfolk, using a 680km subsea and underground cable route to connect the two locations.

Once operational, the link will help relieve pressure on the existing network, support the UK's energy security and clean power goals, and reduce constraint costs. The project is a key component of a wider programme to upgrade the electricity grid to meet future demands.

EGL3 has completed two rounds of public consultation, with a planning application expected to be submitted in 2026. Subject to approval, construction is proposed to start in 2029, with the aim of being fully operational by 2033. Hitachi Energy's selection followed a competitive process and reflects its strong track record in delivering HVDC infrastructure.

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Mark Brackley, Project Director for Eastern Green Link 3 at National Grid Electricity Transmission, said: "We are pleased to confirm Hitachi Energy as preferred bidder for the EGL3 project's converter stations. This is a major milestone for the project and another important step towards building the grid of the future. EGL3 will play a central role in connecting more cleaner energy to homes and business right across the UK.

James Johnson, Deputy Project Director for Eastern Green Link 3 at SSEN Transmission, said: "Reaching this milestone for EGL3 marks another significant step towards delivering the network reinforcements needed to unlock Scotland's renewable energy potential. Once complete, EGL3 will form a vital part of the UK's future electricity backbone – enabling clean, homegrown energy to flow where and when it's needed and supporting energy security in the UK. We're looking forward to working with Hitachi Energy and our partners at National Grid to bring this critical project to life."

Niklas Persson, Managing Director for Grid Integration Business at Hitachi Energy, said: "With over a century of pioneering innovation, we are honored to be selected by SSEN Transmission and National Grid to supply HVDC technology for the EGL3 project. This will strengthen the UK's interconnectivity and ensure a reliable, flexible, and affordable power supply. At Hitachi Energy, we are committed to advancing the UK's energy system towards the Clean Power 2030 target."

Armand Pineda, Senior Vice President, Head of Marketing & Sales for Grid Integration at Hitachi Energy, said: "We are honoured to be selected as the preferred bidder for the EGL3 project's converter stations by SSEN Transmission and National Grid. This recognition reflects our long-standing partnerships with both major UK utilities and our shared commitment to delivering large-scale infrastructure that supports the grid of the future. Hitachi Energy is deeply committed to accelerating the global energy transition, and the UK stands as a flagship in this journey."