Scottish Power has announced it is investing £5.4 billion to improve its transmission network in what is a record contract opportunity issued by the company.
The firm said the investment will cover the next decade and includes transmission projects across its central and southern Scotland network.
“It will help move more green energy across the country to help deliver a low carbon future, connecting 80-85GW of clean renewable energy to the GB transmission system and reduce the UK’s reliance on fossil fuels,” Scottish Power said.
Companies are being encouraged to bid for contracts from SP Energy Networks to design, develop and upgrade new and existing strategic transmission infrastructure including new high voltage substations, overhead line construction as well as design, engineering, construction, and electrical works.
Scottish Power boss Keith Anderson said: “We’re kickstarting the largest overhaul of the grid since its inception. Our investment plans will help grow our electricity networks, grow our workforce and will provide a massive opportunity for the supply chain whilst unlocking growth for the wider economy.
“It is vital we get serious about getting on with the job of consenting and getting this new grid built so that we can take advantage of clean green renewables, transport it around the country and lock in our energy security and maintain the UK’s track record in leading on decarbonisation.”
Vicky Kelsall, chief executive of SP Energy Networks, said: “This is one of the most significant infrastructure roll outs to upgrade the grid to support the electricification of the wider economy.
“We’ve got the plans and we’ve got the financial capital to invest, and the UK supply chain stands ready to benefit to the tune of billions.”
Last November the government announced plans for a “triage” process for prioritising the connection of strategically important energy projects.
In a joint plan with Ofgem, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said it will establish a Connections Delivery Board to oversee the implementation of the six-point plan, which aims to cut the average wait for a connection from five years to six months.