CCG has begun work to build a new technology centre in Cumbernauld.

The National high voltage direct current (HVDC) centre will be built on Oki Way in the town and is set to open in 2017.

Designed by Glasgow-based BSP Architects, the centre will be owned and operated by Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission (SHE Transmission). In addition, the facility is funded through Ofgem's Electricity Network Innovation Competition.

The HVDC Centre will act as a testing facility for electricity Transmission Owners and Operators, suppliers, developers and academic institutions to simulate the use of HVDC on the British electricity network.

The Minister for Employability and Training, Jamie Hepburn, attended the ground-breaking ceremony on Thursday, 01 September.

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He said: "The HVDC Centre is the first of its kind in the country and it will be used by companies and academics across Scotland, the rest of Great Britain and from Europe. In addition to playing a crucial role in supporting the future of the country's electricity network including major transmission reinforcement between Caithness and Moray, the centre will support construction jobs and once the building is operational it will create new high-skilled jobs in the area. The construction of the HVDC Centre is the third centre dedicated to the electricity industry in Cumbernauld – making it a key location for electrical research and innovation."

Calum Murray, Director of CCG, added: "The National HVDC Centre is the second project that CCG has been involved in with SSE, and one which we are very excited about. We are very proud to be working with SSE again to deliver a project that will bring huge benefits to the local economy of Cumbernauld as well as enhancing Scotland and the UK's offering to the energy market for years to come."

The computer simulators in the centre are being provided by RTDS Technologies and the engineering and design consultancy WSP Parsons Brinckerhoff is providing additional support.

(LM/CD)