SSEN Transmission and the Sumitomo Electric and Van Oord consortium have signed a long-term framework agreement to support the delivery of future High Voltage Direct Current  subsea transmission infrastructure across the north of Scotland. The agreement establishes a strategic partnership for the engineering, supply, transport and installation of HVDC subsea cable systems and includes initial design and engineering works for the proposed 525 kV Shetland 2 HVDC link.

The framework combines SSEN Transmission’s long-term investment programme, Sumitomo Electric’s expertise in HVDC cable manufacturing and system design, and Van Oord’s offshore transport and installation knowledge. Together, the businesses aim to support the delivery of future subsea transmission infrastructure required for the modernisation and expansion of Scotland’s electricity network.

The proposed Shetland 2 HVDC link between Shetland and mainland Scotland is expected to be one of the first projects progressed under the framework. The link will help increase network capacity, strengthen system resilience and support the integration of renewable electricity into the wider UK energy system.

As renewable energy capacity continues to expand, offshore transmission infrastructure is essential. Through this collaboration, Van Oord will help deliver offshore energy and subsea power cable projects, supporting the resilient electricity networks needed for the energy transition.