January 30 2026

  • Permanent construction works have begun on the Eastern Green Link 1 (EGL1) project in Scotland, with works in England due to start in March 2026.

  • The transition from enabling activity to permanent works marks a major milestone for the project.

  • Works will support the transfer of secure, cleaner, and more affordable energy between Scotland and England.

Eastern Green Link 1 (EGL1) is designed to strengthen the UK’s electricity network and support the transition to secure, cleaner, and more affordable energy for up to two million homes. The 196km HVDC link forms is a critical component of National Grid’s The Great Grid Upgrade, the largest overhaul of the electricity network in generations.

Permanent works are now underway on the EGL1 project, representing a significant step forward in the delivery of this nationally significant electricity transmission link. Permanent works are the key elements of the project that will remain in place after construction is complete, to deliver energy from where it is generated to where it is needed. 

In Scotland, permanent construction activities have now commenced. These works include cable installation using Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD), a trenchless technique that allows cables to be installed beneath the ground without disturbing the surface. Other works include open trenching, pulling cables into position, and the delivery of cable drums to site.

In England, permanent works are due to begin in March 2026. Activities will include excavation and installation of cable joint bays, HDD works, open trenching for cable installation and associated cable deliveries.

As permanent works progress in both Scotland and England, local communities may notice increased construction traffic and traffic management measures. There will also be more visible construction activity, including larger machinery, open trenching and fencing. The EGL1 project team will continue to provide advance notice of works, and keep communities informed as construction progresses.

Enabling works are scheduled to be completed in England by December 2026, and in Scotland by January 2027, with cable installation planned for 2027.

Matthew Barton, EGL1 Project Director stated:

“The start of permanent works is a major milestone for the EGL1 project as we move to the next phase of construction. These works are a vital step in building the infrastructure needed to support the UK’s growing demand for electricity and help bring energy costs for consumers down.

“We’re incredibly thankful to the local communities for their patience and are committed to working closely with them to minimise disruption as much as possible.”