The North Sea Link (NSL) is the world’s longest subsea HVDC interconnector, connecting Norway and the United Kingdom. With a capacity of 1,400 MW and spanning 720 km, it allows hydropower from Norway to complement wind generation in the UK, and vice versa.
Operational since 2021, the project is a cornerstone of Europe’s strategy to strengthen cross-border energy security and balance renewable generation across different markets.
Project Facts Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | ~720 km (submarine + onshore) |
| Capacity | 1,400 MW |
| Voltage | ±525 kV HVDC |
| Investment Size | ~€1.6–2 billion |
| Companies | Prysmian (BIT: PRY), Siemens Energy (ETR: ENR) |
| Status (2025) | Operational (since 2021) |
| Expected Completion | Completed, fully in service |
Background
- Location: Connects Kvilldal in Norway to Blyth in northeast England.
- Ownership: Jointly owned by Statnett (Norway) and National Grid (UK, LSE: NG.).
- Purpose: Balance intermittent renewable generation between two countries—Norwegian hydropower exports to the UK when wind output is low, and UK wind exports to Norway when hydropower reservoirs are conserved.
- Strategic significance: NSL plays a vital role in both countries’ decarbonization goals and reduces reliance on fossil fuel imports.
Investor Angle
The project itself is utility-owned, but two major listed suppliers benefited:
- Prysmian (BIT: PRY): Supplied the record-length HVDC submarine cables, underlining its global leadership.
- Siemens Energy (ETR: ENR): Delivered the converter station technology.
Additionally, National Grid (LSE: NG.), as part-owner, offers limited exposure for equity investors.
Why it matters for investors:
- Confirms Prysmian’s technical edge in ultra-long subsea HVDC projects.
- Reinforces Siemens Energy’s position in European interconnectors.
- Showcases how utilities like National Grid monetize regulated returns on HVDC assets.
FAQ
Q: What is the North Sea Link HVDC project?
It is a 1,400 MW HVDC subsea interconnector linking Norway and the UK, operational since 2021.
Q: How long is the North Sea Link cable?
At around 720 km, it is the longest HVDC submarine cable in the world.
Q: Why is North Sea Link important?
It enables renewable energy balancing between Norway and the UK, strengthening grid reliability and decarbonization.
Q: Which companies were involved?
Prysmian supplied the submarine cable, and Siemens Energy provided the converter stations.
Q: Can investors gain exposure to North Sea Link?
Yes, indirectly via listed suppliers Prysmian (BIT: PRY), Siemens Energy (ETR: ENR), and partly through utility National Grid (LSE: NG.).