Eastern Green Link 2 HVDC Cable Project Strengthens the U.K. Grid
Prysmian Group has been chosen as the exclusive preferred bidder for the Eastern Green Link 2 (EGL2) HVDC cable project. The selection came from SSEN Transmission and National Grid Electricity Transmission plc, the owners of the Great Britain transmission network.
The decision marks a major step in expanding renewable power links between Scotland and England. Prysmian is now finalizing contract negotiations and aims to conclude the agreement soon. As a result, preparations for this large energy infrastructure project are already moving forward.
Connecting Scotland and England with Advanced HVDC Technology
The Eastern Green Link 2 HVDC cable project will stretch nearly 500 kilometers, connecting Peterhead in Scotland to Drax in North Yorkshire, England. The new submarine and underground line will deliver 2 gigawatts (GW) of power across the U.K. grid.
It will also be one of the nation’s first to use 525 kV technology with extruded XLPE insulation. This advanced system allows higher efficiency, reduced losses, and greater reliability. In addition, it demonstrates how new cable technologies can lower emissions by improving power flow between renewable generation sites and demand centers.
Supporting Renewable Energy Growth and Net Zero Ambitions
The EGL2 project plays an essential role in reinforcing and upgrading the U.K. transmission network. It will increase capacity, helping move renewable energy from northern wind farms to the southern power markets that need it most.
Furthermore, this project supports the goal of producing 50 GW of offshore wind power by 2030. It also contributes to national efforts to reach a Net Zero economy by 2050. Together, these milestones show the U.K.’s commitment to a cleaner and more resilient energy future.
SSEN Transmission’s Key Role in the Green Transition
SSEN Transmission operates under the license of Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission plc. The company manages the high‑voltage electricity network across northern Scotland and its remote islands.
Its grid includes 132 kV, 220 kV, 275 kV, and 400 kV connections. Through projects like the Eastern Green Link 2 HVDC cable project, SSEN Transmission continues to expand critical infrastructure that supports the growing share of renewable energy in the U.K.
