The schemes will deliver major upgrades to the electricity transmission network in the north of Scotland. Credit: © NKT A/S.

SSEN Transmission has announced partnerships with NKT for the advancement of two significant high voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission connection projects in Scotland.

The projects are integral to SSEN’s £20bn infrastructure development programme. This programme is designed to improve the electricity transmission network in northern Scotland and facilitate the distribution of renewable energy across Great Britain.

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The Western Isles connection project includes the installation of 81km of subsea cable and 80km of underground wiring, linking the HVDC site on Lewis to the Fanellan facility on the Scottish mainland.

The Spittal to Peterhead connection will require a 150km subsea line.

Both initiatives will necessitate land cable sections and the construction of new HVDC converter stations.

These agreements enable NKT to commence preliminary works on the projects, which are crucial for connecting Lewis to Beauly and Spittal to Peterhead.

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NKT and SSEN Transmission anticipate that the final construction contracts for the two projects will be terminated in the first half of 2026.

NKT executive vice-president and HV Solutions Karlskrona head Darren Fennell stated: “We are very satisfied with the progression of the projects and continuing the long-term collaboration with SSEN Transmission to strengthen the interconnection of the Scottish power grid.

“With our extensive experience in large turnkey HVDC projects, we remain committed to supporting the decarbonisation of the power system in Great Britain.

“The limited notice to proceed with the projects is a statement of the exceptional collaboration with SSEN Transmission on interconnector projects like the Caithness-Moray HVDC Link and the ongoing Shetland HVDC Link.”

SSEN Transmission offshore delivery director Sandy Mactaggart said: “We are delighted to have secured agreements with our supply chain partner NKT to help deliver the cables needed for the Western Isles and Spittal-Peterhead HVDC connections, an important step supporting the timely delivery of these projects.

“Recognising the unprecedented global demand for HVDC technology, we have acted with pace to secure these key components at the earliest opportunity – and we’re now looking forward to building on our long-established and strong working relationship with NKT.

“We are particularly pleased to be working with NKT on the delivery of the crucial Western Isles connection project.”