The UK’s National Grid has achieved a key milestone with its 2GW Sea Link offshore cable project, as the Planning Inspectorate accepted its development consent application. The project, now in the pre-examination phase, seeks to enhance Great Britain’s electricity network by increasing access to renewable energy sources.

The project is set to connect Pegwell Bay in Kent, UK, to the Suffolk coast.

The Sea Link initiative will connect Pegwell Bay in Kent to the Suffolk coast through a 138km high-voltage direct current (HVDC) cable. Approximately 122km of the cable will be installed offshore, with an additional 14km of underground cables linking to converter stations at both ends. These stations will support the efficient transmission of renewable energy into the grid, bolstering the UK’s energy infrastructure.

Stakeholders, including the public, will soon have the opportunity to register as interested parties with the Planning Inspectorate. This registration will enable them to engage in the examination process, which includes public hearings. A preliminary meeting is scheduled before the examination phase begins. Upon completion of the examination, the Planning Inspectorate will submit a recommendation to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, who will make the final decision on the application.

Adrian Pierssene, Sea Link project director, emphasized the project’s significance, stating: “The acceptance of our application is a significant step forward and reflects the valuable input we have received from local communities and stakeholders. Sea Link will play a vital role in connecting more renewable energy to the grid as demand for energy rises, strengthening energy security and helping to deliver cleaner electricity.”

In a related development, National Grid introduced a £59bn ($78.48bn) HVDC supply chain framework in 2023 to support energy infrastructure projects. Launched last month, this framework focuses on establishing long-term contracts and securing critical equipment for both ongoing and future initiatives, ensuring a robust supply chain for projects like Sea Link.

The Sea Link project aligns with efforts to meet growing energy demands while prioritizing sustainable energy solutions. By facilitating the integration of renewable energy, it aims to enhance energy reliability and support the UK’s transition to cleaner electricity. The project’s progress reflects collaborative input from communities and stakeholders, underscoring its role in advancing the nation’s energy goals.