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The construction industry’s role in delivering Scotland’s energy security ambitions was put centre stage as the Deputy First Minister visited the SSEN Transmission office in Inverness for the launch of the Workforce North Action Plan.
The plan, which brings together key employers and partners, aims to deliver jobs and maximise opportunities for people in the Highlands as the region prepares for a massive expansion in clean energy construction.
During her visit, the Deputy First Minister spoke directly with apprentices who are integral to delivering new electricity transmission infrastructure. Their work is part of SSEN Transmission's expansive £22 billion investment plan, which is central to delivering Scotland and the UK’s clean power and energy security targets while driving local and national economic growth.
The apprentices hail from across the Highlands and Islands and are among the more than 2,500 employees now working for SSEN Transmission—a significant five-fold increase in the company’s headcount over the last five years, with further recruitment ongoing to support the ambitious construction pipeline.
Sandy Mactaggart, Director of Offshore Delivery at SSEN Transmission, confirmed the transformative impact of the investment.
"At SSEN Transmission, our £22bn+ investment plan in new electricity transmission infrastructure is truly transformational, not only in delivering the infrastructure needed to enable energy security and clean power, but in creating lasting opportunities for people, businesses and communities across the north of Scotland," he stated.
The launch event saw representation from key organisations involved in the initiative, including Skills Development Scotland, The Highland Council, and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
Launching the Action Plan, the Deputy First Minister highlighted the scale of future investment, noting that the Highlands and Islands are set to benefit from over £100bn in investment over the next 15 years. The core challenge, she confirmed, is to capitalise on this enormous opportunity to secure thousands of high-quality construction and engineering jobs and ensure communities benefit for generations to come.
