SSEN launches £7.4bn construction framework for Scottish transmission works

Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission has launched procurement for a construction framework worth up to £7.4bn covering civil engineering, buildings, overhead lines and underground cable works across Scotland.

The framework will support SSEN Transmission’s capital investment programme, including network upgrades, asset renewal, new customer connections and infrastructure required for the transition to net zero.

The procurement is divided into six lots covering:

• Civil engineering works valued below £10m

• Civil engineering works valued above £10m

• Buildings and infrastructure

• Overhead line pole construction

• Overhead line tower construction

• Underground cable construction

The civil engineering packages will include substation platforms, access roads, drainage, foundations, bridges, retaining walls, flood defences and environmental mitigation works.

The buildings lot covers new offices, storage buildings, training facilities, welfare accommodation, refurbishment, fit-out and associated mechanical and electrical services.

The remaining lots will support the construction and renewal of overhead transmission lines and underground cable routes operating at voltages of 132kV and above.

Framework agreements are expected to begin in April 2027 and could run for up to eight years, subject to extension options and supplier performance.

Projects may be awarded through either direct appointment or mini-competition, with framework contractors selected according to factors including capability, capacity, performance, location and value for money.

The latest notice replaces an earlier procurement notice following minor amendments to the pre-qualification documents. Suppliers now have until 20 August 2026 to submit requests to participate, with framework appointments expected by 31 March 2027.