Paris, France: December 12, 2023 — GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions division and MYTILINEOS Energy & Metals have been awarded a £1 billion contract by National Grid Electricity Transmission and SP Transmission, part of SP Energy Networks (SPEN), to construct the UK’s first high-capacity east coast subsea link. This milestone project will employ GE Vernova’s advanced High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology.

Project Overview

The consortium will supply and construct two HVDC converter stations for the Eastern Green Link 1 (EGL1) project, a joint venture between National Grid Electricity Transmission and SP Transmission. The EGL1 HVDC link, featuring a 525kV, 2GW bipole Voltage-Sourced Converter (VSC) and HVDC subsea transmission cable, will stretch from Torness in East Lothian, Scotland, to Hawthorn Pit in County Durham, England. This system will transmit renewable energy to over two million UK homes, enhancing the nation’s green energy infrastructure.

Advanced HVDC Technology

GE Vernova, leading the consortium, will provide state-of-the-art engineering and technology for the HVDC converter stations, converting direct current to alternating current for seamless integration into the onshore grid. The HVDC cable, approximately 190km long, will utilize VSC technology, the latest in HVDC advancements, ensuring efficient and reliable long-distance power transmission.

Construction Timeline

The design phase is set to commence in January 2024, with construction beginning in 2025.

Statements from Leadership

Philippe Piron, President and CEO of GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions, expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “This critical HVDC project is pivotal to the UK’s decarbonization and energy security efforts, adding to our portfolio of projects utilizing GE Vernova’s advanced HVDC technology.”

Evangelos Mytilineos, Chairman & CEO of MYTILINEOS, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the company’s expertise in managing and building large-scale grid projects: “We are honored by National Grid and SP Transmission’s confidence in MYTILINEOS. We look forward to leveraging our extensive experience in this vital UK energy transition project.”

GE Vernova’s Role

Under the contract, GE Vernova will supply its VSC HVDC technology from its Stafford, UK, facilities, including the second-generation VSC valve and the innovative eLumina™ control system, which is the industry’s first to fully implement the IEC 61850 digital measurement standard.

MYTILINEOS’ Contribution

MYTILINEOS will handle the engineering, procurement, and construction of civil works, balance of plant, and equipment installation. The company’s strategic focus on network development and renewable energy integration plays a critical role in ensuring the stability and resilience of transmission systems.

Impact on UK Energy Infrastructure

EGL1 is a crucial component of the UK’s efforts to decarbonize and secure its energy supply, aligning with the National Shipbuilding Strategy Refresh. By enhancing the capacity of the networks to transmit renewable energy, the project contributes to a more sustainable and diversified energy mix.

About GE Vernova

GE Vernova is a global energy company focused on Power, Wind, and Electrification, supported by Advanced Research, Consulting Services, and Financial Services. With over 130 years of experience, GE Vernova aims to lead the energy transition by electrifying and decarbonizing the world. The company is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and operates in over 100 countries with 80,000 employees. GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions business provides advanced grid technologies for efficient power transmission and distribution, supporting a decarbonized energy transition.

About MYTILINEOS

MYTILINEOS Energy & Metals, founded in Greece in 1990, is an industrial and energy multinational listed on the Athens Stock Exchange. With a consolidated turnover of €6.3 billion and EBITDA of €823 million, MYTILINEOS employs over 5,442 individuals globally. The company is committed to sustainability, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions in line with ESG criteria. It is recognized as a leader in ESG practices by MSCI and is part of the Dow Jones Sustainability Emerging Markets index.

This collaboration between GE Vernova and MYTILINEOS marks a significant advancement in the UK’s journey towards a sustainable energy future, demonstrating the power of innovative HVDC technology in transforming national energy infrastructure.

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