Balfour Beatty has been awarded the initial works for the Netherton Hub project by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Transmission's Accelerated Strategic Transmission Investment (ASTI) Offshore Framework.

Appointed as the common interface contractor, the company will undertake all civil engineering and building works required to construct the Spittal to Peterhead High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Converter Station. The Netherton Hub, located near Peterhead, received planning consent from Aberdeenshire Council last month.

In addition to this, Balfour Beatty is also delivering a 400 kV substation and a 132 kV substation as part of the ASTI Onshore Framework. The project is part of a wider upgrade to the transmission network in the north of Scotland under SSEN Transmission's 'Pathway to 2030' programme. This work is crucial for meeting the UK and Scottish Governments' renewable energy targets and for securing a reliable supply of affordable, low-carbon power.

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Nick Rowan, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty's Scotland business, said the company's role in delivering this critical infrastructure will ensure "homegrown renewable power can be transmitted to where it is needed most" while also creating jobs and unlocking opportunities for the local supply chain. He added that the company's expertise in delivering complex infrastructure positions it perfectly to continue its partnership with SSEN.

Darren Main, SSEN Transmission's Deputy Project Director for the Netherton Hub, said he was delighted to work with Balfour Beatty and that the project will be a "major driver of jobs and economic activity," creating hundreds of jobs and apprenticeship opportunities in Aberdeenshire.

Having supported SSEN Transmission during the early contractor involvement phase, Balfour Beatty will now progress with enabling works. Main construction is expected to start in early 2026. At its peak, the project will employ approximately 800 people, with at least 5% of the workforce comprising apprentices and graduates as part of the company's commitment to The 5% Club.