Scottish transmission system operator (TSO) SSEN Transmission has formalized a significant long-term framework agreement with Sumitomo Electric Industries and Van Oord Offshore Wind UK. This agreement pertains to the engineering, supply, transport, and installation of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) subsea cable systems aimed at enhancing future subsea network delivery.
Under this agreement, Sumitomo Electric will provide engineering, procurement, and supply services tailored for HVDC cable systems, while Van Oord will manage the offshore transport and installation tasks. Together, these companies are set to facilitate a robust and efficient subsea infrastructure, crucial for advancing renewable energy transmission.
The framework agreement is strategically designed to bolster future subsea transmission projects encompassed in SSEN Transmission’s expansive investment program. One of the inaugural initiatives under this framework is the proposed Shetland 2 project. This ambitious venture aims to establish a connection spanning 330 kilometers between the Shetland Islands and the mainland, enabling the transport of 2 GW of renewable electricity to Great Britain’s energy network.
The Shetland 2 project is a key component of SSEN Transmission’s strategic vision articulated in its plan, aptly named “Beyond 2030.” This plan outlines an investment to the tune of £5 billion in the north of Scotland by 2035, aimed at significantly enhancing the region’s energy resilience and sustainability.
Masaki Shirayama, Managing Director of Sumitomo Electric, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “Our Scotland factory at the Port of Nigg, together with our Business and EPC projects Centre of Excellence in Glasgow, demonstrates our long-term commitment to investing in local engineering capability, creating high-value skilled jobs, and strengthening resilient supply chains across Scotland and the UK.”
Further highlighting the significance of this collaboration, Shirayama added, “Through this Framework Agreement, we look forward to further strengthening our collaboration with SSE Group in the HVDC sector and supporting Scotland’s and the UK’s transition to a secure, resilient, and low-carbon energy system.” This sentiment underscores the commitment of all parties involved to not only advance technology but also to foster local job creation and skill development.