Iberdrola, through its subsidiary SP Energy Networks, has awarded contracts worth over £3 billion to develop the Eastern Green Link 4 (EGL4) subsea power interconnection. This project will connect Scotland with England and aims to strengthen the UK’s energy security.
Furthermore, the infrastructure will increase power transmission capacity between regions, facilitating system balancing and reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.
HVDC Technology for Efficient Transmission
For its part, Siemens Energy will be responsible for building two high-voltage direct current (HVDC) converter stations. This technology allows electricity to be transported over long distances with fewer losses, reaching voltages of up to 525 kV.
The energy will travel approximately 640 kilometers, mostly underwater, before being integrated back into the terrestrial grid. This type of solution has become key to the development of modern and resilient electricity networks.
Prysmian Reinforces Subsea Cable Laying
Likewise, the project includes a prior contract with Prysmian for the supply of over 640 kilometers of cable. Of this total, about 530 kilometers will be subsea and the rest underground.
This combination of infrastructure will ensure system stability and continuous electricity flow between both regions.
Eastern Green Link 4 to Reach 2,000 MW Capacity
With a capacity of 2,000 MW, Eastern Green Link 4 will be able to supply over 1.5 million homes with renewable energy. The link will connect Fife in Scotland with Norfolk in England, consolidating a strategic energy corridor.
The main construction phase is expected to begin in 2028, with operation scheduled for 2033.
Investment Strategy in the United Kingdom
This project joins Eastern Green Link 1, currently under construction, which will also provide 2,000 MW of capacity. Together, both initiatives are part of an ambitious network expansion plan.
Iberdrola plans to invest 14 billion euros by 2031 in electricity transmission infrastructure in the United Kingdom. Additionally, the group anticipates a total investment of 20 billion euros by 2028 in the country.
With this approach, the company seeks to accelerate the integration of clean energy, strengthen energy self-sufficiency, and foster economic development in the regions where it operates.
Source and photo: Iberdrola