Boosting energy transition and jobs in the UK
The UK is transforming the electricity grid in the biggest overhaul in generations to contribute to a cleaner, greener and more secure energy system. This involves multi-million pound investments in new electricity transmission projects across the country.
In this context, Eastern Green Link 1 represents a major economic triumph for the UK, being considered one of the largest electricity transmission investment projects in the country’s recent history at £2.5 billion. But it is also a boost for the UK supply chain, as several UK companies will supply major works and components. This is the case of GE Vernova’s Grid Solutions division (based in Staffordshire), which will supply HVDC valves and control systems, as well as HVDC transformers.
Eastern Green Link 1 is a key part of the new grid infrastructure to accelerate the UK’s energy transition. According to Ofgem, this new infrastructure is needed to improve the capacity of the interconnection network between Scotland and England and enable renewable energy produced in Scotland to reach the most energy intensive regions of the country. It will also play a critical role in supporting the nation’s future security of supply, reducing dependency and price exposure to volatile global wholesale gas markets.
On this path to a greener future, National Grid estimates the creation of 400,000 job opportunities in the country to achieve net zero energy by 2050, including around 150,000 jobs planned in Scotland and the north of England.