Main construction has commenced at the Netherton Hub near Peterhead following a groundbreaking ceremony held yesterday, Wednesday 3 June. The strategic clean energy development will incorporate a 400kV substation, a 132kV substation, and HVDC converter stations to facilitate the Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3), Eastern Green Link 5 (EGL5), and Spittal to Peterhead subsea network projects.

The initiative forms part of a wider £29bn programme to modernise the electricity transmission infrastructure across the north of Scotland. It aims to deliver clean, renewable energy to residential and commercial properties, supporting the clean power and energy security targets of both Scotland and the UK.

Additionally, the development is expected to generate opportunities for local firms in Aberdeenshire, boosting supply chains, early career pathways, and apprenticeships. It will also provide community benefit funding and contribute to an ambition to construct 1,000 new homes across northern Scotland.

The groundbreaking event brought together representatives from SSEN Transmission, Balfour Beatty, local contractors, apprentices, and project teams. This milestone follows the approval by Aberdeenshire Council of the remaining planning conditions necessary to advance the site.

Sandy Mactaggart, Director of Offshore Delivery at SSEN Transmission, said: "Yesterday's groundbreaking marks a significant milestone, with the Netherton Hub set to strengthen our electricity network and support the delivery of clean, renewable power to homes and businesses, helping to meet Scotland and the UK's energy security ambitions.

"A key priority is ensuring this investment delivers lasting local benefits, creating opportunities for businesses across the Aberdeenshire supply chain, alongside new housing and community benefit funding. The project will also support early careers and apprentices, helping to develop the skilled workforce needed to build our future energy system.

"We are proud to be working with our delivery partner Balfour Beatty on this strategically important project, which will play a vital role in delivering the energy transition."

Nick Rowan, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty's business in Scotland, commented: "Today's groundbreaking ceremony marks an important step forward in the delivery of vital infrastructure that will enable the transmission of homegrown, renewable energy across the UK.

"As work begins on the Netherton Hub, we are proud to be working in partnership with SSEN - drawing on our extensive experience and expertise, while creating skilled jobs, developing apprentices and supporting local businesses in the north-east of Scotland."

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The project is positioned to deliver economic advantages to Aberdeenshire and the wider north-east region by prioritising regional supply chains and skills development. Local sub-contractors will be central to the delivery, supporting hundreds of construction jobs and injecting hundreds of millions of pounds into the regional economy. To date, £6.6 million has been expended with Aberdeenshire suppliers on initial earthworks and cabling, supporting approximately 120 local positions.

Kevin Taylor, Director of Ellon-based JKR Contractors Ltd, noted: "We are proud to be involved in the Netherton Hub, delivering the civils and concrete package as part of this major development. With strong local connections, including our own quarries and concrete plants, we are pleased to support a project that will bring long-term economic benefits to the north-east of Scotland.

"We employ 180 people locally, all within commuting distance of the site, allowing us to deliver the project with our own experienced workforce while supporting local jobs and the regional economy.

"The project also provides an important opportunity to invest in skills and the next generation. We currently employ 25 apprentices, with more joining this summer, many of whom will gain valuable experience on this major infrastructure project. We are proud to play a role in supporting the region's future growth."

Ewan Riddoch, Managing Director of Stonehaven-based contractors WM Donald Ltd, added: "WM Donald is proud to be involved at Netherton Hub as part of Balfour Beatty's supply chain. This landmark project for Scotland's energy infrastructure is being delivered by a local workforce with deep roots in the north-east.

"This contract represents a significant investment in our business, supporting skilled employment for people who live and work in the region. Developing the next generation is a key priority for us. We have trained over 60 apprentices in the past seven years, and many will gain valuable experience on this project, helping to deliver infrastructure that matters for Scotland's future.

"We are committed to working with local suppliers, ensuring the economic benefits of Netherton Hub are felt across surrounding communities.

"With nearly 50 years of experience in Scottish civil engineering, we are proud to be delivering this project in partnership with Balfour Beatty and SSEN Transmission, and to play our part in Scotland's energy transition."

Kevin Mackenzie, of Power Partners Scotland Ltd, stated: "Power Partners Scotland brings together Fraserburgh-based David Smith Contractors Ltd and Ground Developments Ltd, combining our strengths to deliver projects like the Netherton Hub.

"Our expertise includes local knowledge, a skilled workforce and strong regional supply chain connections built over many years. Alongside delivering high-quality civil engineering, we are committed to creating lasting benefits for local communities through employment, support for regional suppliers and meaningful social value.

"We look forward to working with Balfour Beatty and SSEN Transmission on this important infrastructure project for the north-east of Scotland."

The Hub will also provide professional development for young professionals, incorporating graduate staff and apprentices into the delivery teams.

Isla Dickie-Moir, a Trainee Planning Engineer working on the Netherton Hub for SSEN Transmission, said: "As someone who grew up locally and lives in the north-east, it's great to be part of a project that supports the Aberdeenshire economy while playing an important role in the energy transition.

"It also allows me to build my career locally, and it's especially exciting at this stage to be involved in a strategic clean energy project of this scale and importance. I'm looking forward to playing my part in delivering the Netherton Hub while continuing to develop my skills and experience."

Jayden Scanlan, an Apprentice Site Engineer working on the project for Balfour Beatty, concluded: "As someone building my life in the north-east, the Netherton Hub is a great opportunity to begin a career in the power industry.

"Being involved at this stage allows me to see designs turn into live construction, helping me build a practical understanding of site operations and project delivery. Working on a major project in my local area highlights its importance and motivates me to deliver my best.

"As part of the early careers community, the exposure and responsibility I gain from this project are invaluable in developing a strong foundation for my career in the energy sector, and offer so many opportunities to develop the skills required by the region and the industry."