Electricity North West has completed its largest ever tender for construction work on its underground power network, awarding contracts worth £400 million over eight years to Network Plus Services and O’Connor Utilities.
Network Plus, formerly known as T&K Gallagher, will continue its operations in the northern half of the Electricity North West’s license area. Meanwhile, O’Connor Utilities will take over operations in the southern half, including Greater Manchester and the surrounding area, from Excalon.
The contracts were awarded following a 12-month tender process. Work will begin on 1 April 2020.
Peter Emery, chief executive of Electricity North West, said: “Following a comprehensive tender process, I’m pleased to confirm Network Plus and O’Connor Utilities as our partners for completing underground construction work throughout the North West for the next eight years.
“This is a crucial time for the North West’s power network. We expect electricity usage to significantly increase as we move towards a decarbonised economy. That means more electricity flowing through our network being fed in from more and more renewable sources, powering electric vehicles and the homes of the future.
“Getting the right contractors at the right price is vital for the network and all our customers. I look forward to working alongside both companies as we continue to upgrade the region’s power network to keep the North West running.”
Electricity North West is responsible for maintaining 44,000 kilometres of underground power cables in the region.