SSEN Transmission has awarded global energy technology leader Hitachi Energy major contracts to deliver high-voltage direct current (HVDC) converter stations at each end of two new subsea cable links: one, already consented, linking Spittal in Caithness and Peterhead in Aberdeenshire; and the other proposed to connect the Western Isles to the Scottish mainland.
The contract award builds on Hitachi Energy being selected as preferred bidder for the projects in 2023 and subsequently being appointed under a framework agreement designed to accelerate delivery of the UK’s clean-energy transition.
Contracts cover the design, procurement, manufacturing, installation and commissioning of the HVDC Converter Technology.
This latest milestone on two of SSEN Transmission’s key projects in the north of Scotland demonstrate the commitment of the business to delivering meaningful social value alongside critical infrastructure. In November, SSEN Transmission became the first business to sign the Highland Social Value Charter, committing to a comprehensive set of socio-economic benefits for communities across the Highlands as part of its £22 billion+ investment programme. Under the Charter - which sets out expectations for infrastructure developers to maximise local economic opportunities and inclusive growth - SSEN Transmission has pledged to deliver significant local contracts, investment in roads and bridges, support for housing development, community benefit funding, a net gain in biodiversity and more.
Niklas Persson, Managing Director of Hitachi Energy´s Grid Integration business, said: 'We are proud to contribute our HVDC technology to these landmark projects that will strengthen the UK’s transmission network and accelerate the energy transition. Delivering reliable power at scale requires not only advanced solutions but also deep collaboration and shared commitment to strengthen the UK and European grids. Together with SSEN Transmission, we are shaping a future where clean power flows seamlessly across borders, accelerating progress toward a sustainable, carbon-neutral society for generations to come.'
The proposed Western Isles link will enable export of renewable power from island generation to the mainland grid, and vice-versa, while the Spittal - Peterhead link will form a strategic transmission corridor for energy flow across the north of Scotland. Together, these projects are part of SSEN Transmission’s broader £22bn+ investment programme – designed to upgrade the transmission system across the north of Scotland, in order to deliver energy security and clean power targets.
Hitachi Energy boast a strong track record in delivering HVDC infrastructure globally, as well as delivery experience in the UK. With this contract award, the company and SSEN Transmission reaffirm their shared commitment to delivering on the UK’s clean-energy ambitions and laying the foundation for reliable, large-scale renewable power transmission across the country.
Sandy Mactaggart, SSEN Transmission’s Director of Offshore Delivery, said: 'Today’s contract award marks another significant milestone in delivering the critical national infrastructure required to unlock Scotland’s renewable energy potential. The Western Isles and Spittal to Peterhead links will play a vital role in strengthening our network, enhancing security of supply and enabling the connection of home-grown clean energy for homes and businesses across the country.
'As the first business to sign the Highland Social Value Charter, we’re also committed to ensuring that projects like these deliver clear and lasting benefits for the communities who host them - from local job creation and skills development to wider economic and environmental improvements. We’re looking forward to continuing our close collaboration with Hitachi Energy as we progress these transformative projects and deliver the transmission system our clean energy future needs.'
With the Banniskirk (Spittal) and Netherton Hub (Peterhead) converter stations consented, and the marine licence granted, full construction work on the Spittal to Peterhead subsea cable link project will start soon.
For the Western Isles link, the Lewis Hub (Stornoway) has received planning consent, with a planning application submitted and being considered by the Highland Council for the Fanellan converter station, near Beauly. A marine licence application has also been submitted.
Subject to these remaining approvals, both subsea links are anticipated to be energised by 2030, providing essential capacity to transport clean, secure and affordable electricity across Scotland and to consumers throughout Great Britain.
Source: SSEN Transmission
