SSE has detailed how a massive investment programme exceeding £23 billion in electricity transmission will underpin the UK’s renewable energy targets while providing a significant economic boost to the north of Scotland.

Through a new investor webinar, SSE leadership explained the necessity of upgrading the transmission network to deliver clean power at scale. The programme focuses on the RIIO-T3 price control period and involves 11 major onshore and offshore projects across the SSEN Transmission licence area.

The north of Scotland accounts for approximately one quarter of the UK's landmass but less than 5% of its population. Despite this, the region holds some of the most significant renewable energy resources in the UK. By 2030, the area is expected to provide around 20% of the UK’s clean power generation. Furthermore, it is estimated that one-sixth of the total emissions reductions required across the UK economy by 2050 will come from renewables connected to this specific network.

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The £29bn+ investment programme is already well advanced, with Ofgem having approved the expenditure. The "mega projects" consist of six onshore reinforcements and five offshore links. Currently, five of these 11 projects are under construction, and more than three-quarters of the necessary consents for marine works, overhead lines, and substations have been secured.

The programme also highlights a strong track record of delivery, citing the recent Shetland HVDC link which was finished ahead of schedule, on budget, and with a perfect safety record.

Beyond infrastructure, the investment is expected to deliver substantial social and economic benefits, including:

• Supporting approximately 37,000 jobs across the UK, with 18,000 of those located in Scotland.

• Increasing the SSEN Transmission workforce from 2,800 to 3,500 people.

• Providing at least £100 million in community benefit funding for the north of Scotland.

Creating a housing legacy by building or refurbishing around 1,000 homes for workers, which will later be transferred to social landlords and local authorities.

To ensure the programme is delivered efficiently, SSE has moved toward a portfolio approach for supply chain contracting through 2030. Significant resources are also being directed into IT systems, training facilities, and control rooms to manage the expanding transmission business safely and at pace.