Equitix, together with Kyuden International Corporation and Kyushu Electric Power Transmission and Distribution Company, Incorporated (Kyuden Group), has completed a deal to buy Seagreen Phase 1’s offshore transmission assets from Seagreen Wind Energy Limited (SWEL).

The transaction involves significant infrastructure including subsea and onshore export cables, an offshore substation, and an onshore substation. Equitix and Kyuden Group will oversee the transmission system for 24 years under a license from the UK energy regulator, Ofgem.

Backing Scotland’s Biggest Offshore Wind Farm

Seagreen Phase 1 is Scotland’s largest and the world’s deepest fixed-bottom offshore wind farm, positioned approximately 27 kilometers off the coast of Angus. Three 64-kilometer-long subsea export cables will carry energy from the offshore turbines, followed by a 20-kilometer onshore stretch to the Angus substation.

Seagreen generates up to 1,075 MW of renewable energy, providing power for over 1.6 million homes—about two-thirds of Scotland’s households. By replacing fossil fuel-based electricity, Seagreen will cut over 2 million metric tons of carbon dioxide every year.

Expanding a Growing OFTO Portfolio

This acquisition boosts Equitix’s OFTO portfolio to six assets, transmitting about 3.5 GW of electricity and supporting renewable energy growth. Equitix and Kyuden Group secured the role of preferred bidders for the Dogger Bank A OFTO project, which is on track to finalize financing later this year.

Achal Bhuwania, Chief Investment Officer of Equitix, stated that the company’s investment in Seagreen reflected the dedication and effort of their team in fostering long-term partnerships and creating value for investors. He emphasized that Equitix’s expertise and perseverance had helped them expand their OFTO portfolio, contributing significantly to the UK’s journey toward a net-zero carbon future

Also read: KKR and PSP Investments Acquire Stake in AEP Transmission Companies

Economic and Financial Backing

Seagreen Phase 1 ranked among Scotland’s largest infrastructure projects, injecting over £1 billion into the economy and creating around 4,000 jobs, according to independent analysis by PwC.

Equitix and Kyuden Group funded the acquisition of the transmission assets through a mix of equity investment. They also secured loans from several financial institutions, including The Japan Bank for International Cooperation, Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank Limited (London Branch), Mizuho Bank, Ltd., and Aviva Life & Pensions UK Limited.

Seagreen Phase 1 was developed by SWEL as part of a joint venture involving SSE Renewables, TotalEnergies, and PTTEP.

NextDecade Corporation and Baker Hughes have signed a framework agreement for improving the efficiency and reliability of the Rio Grande LNG Facility. The deal includes NextDecade integrating Baker Hughes’ latest gas turbine and refrigerant compressor technology for trains 4 to 8 in the facility. Long-term maintenance services will also be provided by Baker Hughes for maximum performance.

Improving Efficiency and Reliability

NextDecade’s Chairman and CEO, Matt Schatzman,stated that using Baker Hughes’ advanced rotating equipment and maintenance services is essential for ensuring the efficient and reliable operation of the Rio Grande LNG Facility.He further expressed anticipation for continued collaboration with Baker Hughes as the company advances its plans to establish the Rio Grande LNG Facility as one of the largest LNG production and export sites globally.

Also read: Baker Hughes and Frontier Infrastructure Partner to Advance Carbon Capture and Power Solutions

Update on Rio Grande LNG Expansion

Lorenzo Simonelli, Chairman and CEO of Baker Hughes, said,”Baker Hughes is proud to continue our long-standing relationship with NextDecade, providing advanced gas technology solutions that enhance the efficiency and reliability of their LNG operations.

He added,”This agreement is a further example of our commitment to delivering innovative solutions in support of increasing energy demand.”

NextDecade is advancing commercialization of Units 4 and 5 in the Rio Grande LNG Facility. Final investment and the start of construction of the units are expected in the near term, subject to obtaining needed government permits, executing EPC contracts, obtaining commercial agreements, and obtaining appropriate financing.

NextDecade is also in the early stages of building and obtaining permits for Trains 6 through 8.These extra units, owned entirely by NextDecade, will add to the company’s overall liquefaction capacity by about 18 million tons a year upon completion.