What is the Eastern Green Link 3?

What is the Eastern Green Link 3? A deep dive into the UK's new energy superhighway

As the United Kingdom accelerates its transition to a net-zero future, the national electricity grid must evolve to meet the demands of a renewable-powered economy. At the heart of this transformation is a series of ambitious infrastructure projects designed to transport clean energy from where it is generated to where it is needed. One of the most significant of these is the Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3), a project that is set to become a critical backbone of the UK's future energy system.

This article provides a comprehensive explanation of the Eastern Green Link 3 project, detailing its purpose, technical specifications, and importance for both the UK’s energy security and its climate goals.

What is the Eastern Green Link 3 project?

The Eastern Green Link 3 is a planned high-voltage direct current (HVDC) electrical superhighway designed to connect Scotland with England. It is a joint venture between National Grid Electricity Transmission and SSEN Transmission, two of the UK's leading energy infrastructure companies. The project involves the installation of a new submarine and underground cable that will run from Aberdeenshire in Scotland down to North Yorkshire in England, significantly increasing the capacity to move power between the two regions.

Unlike traditional alternating current (AC) cables, HVDC technology is specifically engineered for efficient, long-distance power transmission. This makes it the ideal choice for projects like EGL3, which aims to unlock the vast renewable energy potential of Scotland—particularly its abundant wind resources—and deliver it to demand centres in England. The project is not a standalone effort but part of a wider, coordinated network of new transmission lines and interconnectors designed to modernise the national grid.

The vital role of the interconnector in the UK's energy system

The UK’s energy landscape is changing. With the rapid deployment of wind farms and other renewable generators in Scotland, the existing grid infrastructure is becoming congested. There is a surplus of clean, low-cost power in the north that cannot always be transported efficiently to the south, where a large portion of the population resides. This can lead to grid constraints, where renewable energy is curtailed or effectively wasted and expensive, carbon-intensive gas plants in the south have to be switched on to meet demand.

This is where the Eastern Green Link 3 cable plays a crucial role. By providing a new 2 GW (gigawatt) transmission route, it will:

• Enable the flow of renewable energy: It will act as a superhighway, allowing clean energy from Scotland’s wind farms to power homes and businesses in England.

• Enhance grid stability and resilience: By improving the grid's ability to balance supply and demand, EGL3 will reduce volatility and make the entire network more reliable.

• Support the phase-out of fossil fuels: By facilitating the integration of more renewables, the HVDC interconnector will reduce the reliance on conventional fossil fuel power generation.

In essence, EGL3 is more than just a cable; it is an essential piece of infrastructure that connects clean power supply with high-demand centres, directly supporting the UK’s decarbonisation efforts.

Key technical details and project specifications

The Eastern Green Link 3 project route has been meticulously planned to minimise its impact while maximising its efficiency. The cable's journey begins with an onshore converter station at Peterhead, a key hub for offshore wind. From there, it will travel out to sea, running along the seabed as a submarine cable for a significant portion of its length. The cable will then come ashore in North Yorkshire, where it will run underground to its destination: a converter station at Drax.

The use of HVDC technology is a key feature. Unlike AC, which is less efficient over long distances due to energy loss, HVDC can transmit large amounts of power with minimal losses. This is particularly important for a project that spans approximately 400 kilometres. The 2 GW capacity of the cable is significant, equivalent to powering roughly two million homes, making it one of the most powerful interconnectors of its kind in the UK. The project timeline, which has been subject to extensive planning and consultation, is on track to be completed by the end of the decade, bringing this vital link online when it is most needed.

Environmental and economic benefits

The benefits of the National Grid ESO Eastern Green Link 3 project extend far beyond simple power transmission. By unlocking Scotland's renewable energy, it will contribute to a more sustainable and economically sound future for the UK.

From an environmental perspective, EGL3 is a powerful tool for reducing carbon emissions. By enabling clean power to replace fossil-fuel generation, it helps the UK move closer to its legally binding net-zero targets. The project will also contribute to lowering wholesale electricity costs for consumers. By easing grid congestion and allowing cheaper renewable power to enter the market, it can help to drive down prices, especially during periods of high wind generation.

Economically, the project will be a major driver of investment and job creation. The construction phase alone will generate hundreds of roles, while the long-term operation and maintenance of the cable will create a skilled workforce for the future. The project's commitment to using buried cables for its onshore sections reflects a conscientious approach to minimising environmental impact.

Challenges and public consultation

Like any large-scale infrastructure project, EGL3 is not without its challenges. One of the most significant hurdles is managing the impact of the onshore infrastructure, particularly the converter stations and cable routes. Local communities often have concerns about visual impact, noise, and disruption during the construction phase.

Recognising this, the developers; National Grid and SSEN have engaged in extensive public consultation and stakeholder engagement. This process is crucial for addressing local concerns, refining the project design, and securing the necessary regulatory approvals. Navigating complex environmental assessments and obtaining permits from various authorities is a detailed and rigorous process that is fundamental to the project's success.

Eastern Green Link 3’s place in the broader energy transition

The Eastern Green Link 3 is a cornerstone of the UK’s future energy strategy. It is part of a larger, multi-billion-pound investment in the national grid, which includes several similar HVDC projects aimed at creating a more robust and interconnected system. These projects are crucial for future-proofing the UK's electricity network, ensuring it can handle the increased volume of power from new offshore wind farms and other renewable sources.

The project directly supports the UK's net-zero 2050 target by enabling a cleaner, more efficient energy system. It is a tangible example of the infrastructure required to shift from a decentralised, fossil-fuel-based system to a modern, interconnected, and renewable-powered one.

The Eastern Green Link 3 is far more than just a subsea cable; it is a vital artery for the UK's energy future. By connecting the renewable heartland of Scotland with the demand centres of England, it will play an indispensable role in ensuring UK electricity grid infrastructure can support the clean energy transition. The project will not only enhance grid security and stability but also help lower costs for consumers and significantly reduce the nation's carbon footprint. It stands as a testament to the large-scale, visionary projects required to power a sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.