SSEN Transmission has announced its biggest-ever contract award, appointing global manufacturer NKT to deliver two pivotal high-voltage direct current (HVDC) subsea links.

Valued at €2bn, the contracts cover the design, production, and installation of cable systems for the Western Isles and the Spittal-to-Peterhead projects.

The two 525kV links are essential components of SSEN Transmission's wider £22bn+ investment programme. The Western Isles link will facilitate the export of renewable power between the islands and the mainland, while the Spittal-to-Peterhead corridor will act as a strategic energy artery across the north of Scotland.

These projects build on a successful history of collaboration between the two firms, following the delivery of the Caithness-to-Moray and Shetland subsea links.

Beyond engineering, the deal underscores a commitment to regional development. Having signed the Highland Social Value Charter at the end of 2025, SSEN Transmission has pledged to ensure its investment programme delivers tangible benefits, including local contracts, housing support, and infrastructure improvements such as roads and bridges.

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Sandy Mactaggart, SSEN Transmission's Director of Offshore Delivery, commented: "Awarding these contracts marks another major step forward in delivering the critical subsea links needed to unlock Scotland's clean energy potential. This is the largest contract award in SSEN Transmission's history, underlining both the scale of the challenge ahead and the scale of our commitment to delivering the infrastructure our energy system needs."

The procurement process was described by SSE's Chief Procurement Officer, Ronnie Fleming, as one of the most significant ever undertaken by the group. He noted that securing NKT through a competitive process ensures the project has the necessary "capability, quality and value" to meet the UK's net zero targets.

Claes Westerlind, President and CEO of NKT, added: "We are pleased to have signed the final contracts for these two Scottish transmission links with SSEN Transmission. This milestone reinforces our strong position in the UK market and reflects our commitment to strengthening the cable infrastructure supporting the region's transition to renewable energy. We will continue our excellent collaboration with SSEN Transmission, while also strengthening our corporate footprint by creating local jobs and building partnerships with UK suppliers."

As the projects move into the construction phase, the focus remains on securing a resilient energy future for Great Britain.

"Our long‑standing partnership with NKT gives us confidence in delivering these complex projects to the highest standards, while ensuring that the benefits are felt locally through jobs, investment and opportunities for communities across the north of Scotland," Mr Mactaggart concluded.