Revenue Secured

On 7 February 2022, Dogger Bank C secured a new revenue stream when National Grid Electricity System Operator (ESO) awarded it a 10‑year power contract under the Pennines Voltage Pathfinder programme. The contract covers the provision of 200 MVAr of reactive power capability from Dogger Bank C’s onshore converter station at Lazenby in North-East England, to be delivered between 2024 and 2034. This award marks the first time in the UK that an offshore wind farm transmission asset has won a National Grid ESO reactive power tender, representing a notable innovation in how offshore wind infrastructure supports wider system needs. The overall Pennines Voltage Pathfinder contracts announced are valued at £22.5 million, encompassing Dogger Bank C and complementary services from National Grid Electricity Transmission in West Yorkshire. The Voltage Pathfinder initiative was launched by National Grid ESO to secure cost-effective reactive power services that help maintain grid voltage within strict limits, particularly in regions facing the closure of large synchronous generators such as Hartlepool nuclear power station. Following a competitive process to identify the most economical solutions, Dogger Bank C’s offshore transmission asset was selected to meet the identified requirement in North-East England. By using existing offshore wind transmission infrastructure instead of building new grid assets, the contract is expected to save UK consumers millions of pounds and reduce the need for additional onshore energy infrastructure, thereby limiting visual and environmental impacts on coastal communities while contributing to the development of a greener, zero‑carbon electricity system.