The consortia are bidding to design and build electrical systems covering 280km between London, Birmingham and Crewe, where HS2 trains will join the existing West Coast Mainline.

Around 50 traction sub-stations will be built alongside the line between London and Crewe in order to deliver power from the National Grid to the trains.

The contractor will also deliver a dedicated  HV non-traction power network that will provide power to stations, shafts, portals, depots and railway systems along the route.

HS2’s procurement and commercial director, David Poole said: “The shortlist for high voltage power supply systems is another major milestone as we put in place the key rail systems teams that will take over once the civil engineering stage is finished.

“Once complete, HS2 will be one of the lowest carbon ways to travel, freeing up more capacity on the existing rail network and helping to take cars and lorries off the roads.

“Our power supply systems are a crucial part of the project and part of a solution which will help the UK reach net zero by 2050.”

Contracts are expected to be awarded in 2022.