Construction Begins on £2.5 Billion Subsea Electricity Superhighway to Transform the UK’s Energy Grid

Construction is now officially underway on the £2.5 billion Eastern Green Link 1 (EGL1), a ground breaking subsea electricity superhighway set to revolutionise the UK’s energy infrastructure. Spanning 190 kilometres beneath the North Sea, this high-voltage cable will connect Scotland’s abundant renewable energy resources to England’s high electricity demand, delivering clean power to around two million homes. The project, a joint venture between SP Energy Networks and National Grid Electricity Transmission, aims to strengthen energy security, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support the UK’s transition to a low-carbon future.

At the launch event in Torness, East Lothian, Paul McLennan, Minister for Housing and East Lothian MSP, praised the initiative. “This £2.5 billion investment highlights the commitment of SP Energy Networks and National Grid Electricity Transmission to enhancing energy security while delivering significant social, economic, and environmental benefits to local communities,” he said. The project also includes an £8 million community fund to support initiatives in East Lothian and County Durham, ensuring lasting benefits for the areas hosting this critical infrastructure.

Nicola Connelly, CEO of SP Energy Networks, emphasised the importance of modernising the grid to meet future demands. “Electricity is essential to our daily lives, and with demand set to double, projects like EGL1 are vital to ensuring the grid can keep pace. This marks a major step towards a more resilient and sustainable energy network.”

Offshore construction is set to begin this summer, marking the next chapter in the UK’s clean energy revolution. EGL1 will not only help the UK achieve its net-zero targets but also unlock economic growth and job opportunities. By enabling the efficient transfer of renewable energy, the project will play a key role in reducing carbon emissions and future-proofing the nation’s energy system.

As the UK continues its shift towards renewable energy, EGL1 stands as a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration in building a cleaner, greener future. This subsea superhighway is a critical milestone in the journey towards a more sustainable and secure energy grid for generations to come.