Shocking Revelation: UK Subsea Link Contracts Awarded to Unlikely Trio
In a surprising turn of events, the Eastern Green Link 2 (EGL2) project has awarded contracts to Prysmian, Hitachi Energy, and BAM for the development of a groundbreaking subsea electricity superhighway in the UK. This joint venture between SSEN Transmission and National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) marks a significant milestone in the country’s energy infrastructure.
The EGL2 project entails the creation of a 525kV, 2GW HVDC subsea transmission cable stretching from Peterhead in Scotland to Drax in England. This ambitious endeavor aims to provide electricity to a staggering 2 million UK homes, making it the largest electricity transmission project in the nation’s history.
The Unlikely Trio: Prysmian, Hitachi, and BAM
Prysmian, a key player in the project, has assured stakeholders of its capacity to deliver the HVDC cable within the project timeline. With cutting-edge manufacturing facilities and specialized cable laying vessels, Prysmian is set to play a crucial role in the successful implementation of EGL2.
Hitachi Energy, in collaboration with BAM, will be responsible for the engineering works and technology behind the HVDC converter stations. These stations are vital components that facilitate the conversion of direct current to alternating current for seamless integration into the onshore transmission network.
A Game-Changer for the UK Energy Landscape
The subsea HVDC cable system, spanning approximately 436 km, will be equipped with state-of-the-art converter stations at both ends to ensure seamless connectivity with the existing transmission network infrastructure. EGL2 represents a significant step towards achieving net zero emissions and enhancing the UK’s energy security.
Ricky Saez, the EGL2 Project Director at SSEN Transmission, expressed enthusiasm about the project’s progress, highlighting the importance of the contracts with Hitachi Energy, BAM, and Prysmian. He emphasized the critical role these companies play in advancing the project and enhancing the flow of green energy across the network.
Future Prospects and Global Impact
As the EGL2 project gains momentum, the energy sector anticipates a paradigm shift in the UK’s energy landscape. With a focus on reducing dependency on volatile global gas markets, EGL2 sets a precedent for sustainable energy initiatives worldwide.
Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking project as it unfolds!
