Scottish Hydro sparks £7.4bn contractor framework race

Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission has launched a £7.4bn framework hunt for contractors to help deliver its expanding high-voltage network investment programme across Scotland.

The utility giant is seeking long-term strategic delivery partners across six workstreams covering civils, buildings, overhead lines and underground cable construction under framework agreements that could run for up to eight years.

The framework will support transmission network upgrades, customer connections, asset renewals and net zero investment projects as parent group SSE ramps up spending on critical energy infrastructure.

Contractors can bid for all six lots, with submissions due by 16 July.

The biggest opportunities cover civils works, split between projects worth up to £10m and major schemes exceeding that value, alongside specialist lots for buildings and infrastructure, overhead line pole construction, overhead line tower construction and underground cable works.

SSE £7.4bn Framework Packages

Lot

Package

Scope

1

Up to £10m Civils

Substation site clearance, earthworks, foundations, access tracks, roads, drainage

2

Over £10m Civils

Major substation platforms, reinforced foundations, access roads, bridges, retaining walls, culverts, flood defences

3

Buildings & Infrastructure

Storage buildings, offices, welfare buildings, fit-out works, M&E and RAAC roof replacement

4

OHL Pole Construction

Design, foundations, erection, stringing, testing and completion of pole-based overhead line works, typically at 132kV and above

5

OHL Tower Construction

Lattice tower and steel structure overhead line works, including foundations, steelwork assembly, erection, stringing and commissioning

6

Underground Cable Construction

132kV+ underground cable route design, trenching, duct installation, joint bays, cable pulling, testing, commissioning and reinstatement

The framework forms part of SSE’s drive to expand grid capacity and connect new renewable energy projects as electricity demand rises and the UK pushes towards net zero targets.

Prequalification submissions close on 16 July 2026, with successful firms expected to secure places on frameworks running for up to 96 months.

Scottish Hydro sparks £7.4bn contractor framework race | Construction Enquirer News