A significant step forward has been taken in the development of the Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3) project following the formal signing of contracts for the cable system and converter stations.

This development represents a landmark moment for what is currently the largest electricity transmission scheme in the UK's history, aimed at bolstering economic growth and lowering costs for energy consumers.

The agreements, which have a combined value of nearly £3 billion, confirm Hitachi Energy as the delivery partner for the high voltage direct current (HVDC) converter stations located in West Norfolk, England, and Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Additionally, NKT has been appointed to deliver the subsea and underground cabling that will connect these stations. The finished project will consist of a 690km high voltage link—incorporating roughly 580km of offshore cabling—with the capacity to transport enough electricity to power two million homes.

When the link becomes operational, it will be instrumental in lowering constraint costs, which are the payments issued when wind farms are required to reduce their generation due to a lack of grid capacity. By addressing transmission bottlenecks, EGL3 will allow renewable energy generated in Scotland and along the east coast to be transported to areas of high demand. This increase in capacity between the two nations is designed to improve the UK's energy security and contribute to more affordable bills.

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The involvement of Hitachi Energy and NKT, who are strategic partners to both SSEN Transmission and National Grid Electricity Transmission, highlights the necessity of a resilient supply chain for large-scale energy infrastructure.

Mark Brackley, Project Director for Eastern Green Link 3 at National Grid, said: "Signing these contracts is a major milestone for EGL3 and for the joint venture between National Grid and SSEN Transmission. By working with world‑class supply chain partners, we are investing in infrastructure that will reduce constraint costs, strengthen energy security and ensure more clean electricity can flow to homes and businesses across the country, while also supporting jobs and economic growth in the regions."

James Johnson, EGL3's Deputy Project Director, said: "EGL3 is a vital investment in the UK's future energy system. By securing these major contracts, we're taking a decisive step towards strengthening the electricity network so more clean, homegrown power can flow from where it's generated to where it's needed most. This project will play a key role in cutting constraint costs, supporting consumer affordability and delivering long‑term economic benefits, while building the resilient infrastructure required to meet the UK's energy security and clean power ambitions."

Niklas Persson, Managing Director of Hitachi Energy's Business Unit Grid Integration said: "We're proud that Hitachi Energy's HVDC technology and execution capabilities will play a central role in EGL3.This link is a critical step in strengthening the UK's transmission backbone, making sure renewable power reaches the grid when and where it's needed – maximizing its potential and supporting a more secure and sustainable energy system. What truly sets this partnership apart is its focus on long‑term planning, that enables Hitachi Energy to scale our human capabilities, coordinate with suppliers, and align the entire value chain well in advance. This is how we ensure predictability, manage complexity, and ultimately deliver high‑performance transmission projects safely, on time, and within budget, together."

Claes Westerlind, President and CEO of NKT, said: "Signing the contract for EGL3 is a significant milestone for NKT and for the reinforcement of Great Britain's power system. We are proud to take this important step together with National Grid and SSEN Transmission, strengthening our long‑term collaboration and reflecting the trust our partners place in NKT as we work to advance the UK's energy transition. With our proven expertise in HVDC technology, we look forward to delivering the cable systems that will reinforce the grid and support a cleaner, more reliable energy future."