National Grid Joins Northern Powerhouse Partnership to Boost North’s Economy

WREN HALL, England — National Grid has officially joined the Northern Powerhouse Partnership (NPP), aimed at enhancing economic growth and job creation across the North of England. The announcement took place on November 26 at the Eastern Green Link 2 (EGL2) converter station visitor center.

During the event, key figures, including Alex Kaufman, Director of Land, Planning and External Affairs at National Grid, and Baroness Julie Elliott, Chair of the NPP, highlighted the importance of this partnership. Kaufman stated, “National Grid is investing in the North to grow Britain’s energy network and support the shift to cleaner, home-grown power from more affordable sources.”

This collaboration is expected to deepen ties with local leaders and industry, translating substantial investments into sustainable jobs and supply chain opportunities. National Grid’s projects, including Eastern Green Link 1 and 2, are part of a larger strategy to support up to 55,000 jobs across the UK by 2030.

Baroness Elliott expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We’re delighted to welcome National Grid into the Partnership and look forward to working with them to ensure communities across the North feel the full economic benefits of The Great Grid Upgrade.”

The NPP membership aims to help ensure that planned energy projects, such as developments for small modular reactors and electric trains, receive strong transmission capacity, further reinforcing community infrastructures.

National Grid has also been active in supporting local businesses through initiatives like “meet-the-buyer” events, enabling northern firms to secure contracts and create new employment opportunities.

This partnership signifies a commitment to not just meeting energy needs but also fostering an environment for skilled job creation in the North, strengthening the local economic landscape.