Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) has unveiled a £450 million investment programme to modernise the electricity distribution network in northern Scotland, creating over 300 jobs by the end of the decade.
The upgrades will enhance network resilience, particularly in the region’s challenging climate, while supporting low-carbon technologies such as EV chargers, solar panels, and heat pumps.
Fraser Hood, SSEN’s Director of Large Capital Delivery, stated: “The transformative investment we’re making means we’re in the best-possible position to deliver an electricity system which will support sustainable economic growth, benefit the environment in the decades to come, and create significant job opportunities during construction in communities across the north of Scotland.”
Five companies including OCU Utility Services Ltd, Clancy Ltd, Freedom Group Ltd, MacAulay Askernish Ltd, and Brush Group, will lead the delivery of improvements across nine sub-regions.
These efforts will include renewing wooden poles and overhead lines, updating substations, and reinforcing underground networks.
Gillian Martin MSP, Acting Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Energy, commented: “Decarbonising Scotland’s economy depends heavily on significant investment in the upkeep and futureproofing of our electricity system, so the network can meet the demand from users now and in the future.”
This initiative is expected to bolster local economies while aligning with Scotland’s net-zero goals.
