SSEN Transmission has launched a major supply chain framework worth up to £7.4bn over the next eight years, creating new opportunities for suppliers across the north of Scotland and further afield, with a strong focus on local businesses and regional economies.

The multi-billion-pound framework will support critical onshore transmission works as part of SSEN Transmission's £29bn investment programme to modernise the electricity network. The initiative is intended to accelerate the delivery of clean, homegrown power to households and businesses while advancing energy security and affordability goals.

Spanning civils, operational building construction, overhead line works and underground cable installation, the framework is designed to enable up to £7.4bn of investment in essential upgrades and new connections vital to a secure, cleaner and more cost-effective energy system.

"This framework represents another key step in building the strong, capable and resilient supply chain we need to deliver our investment plans at pace. It creates a broad range of opportunities across our programme and, through a dedicated regional pathway for civils works, opens the door for local businesses and smaller suppliers to play a direct role in delivering critical infrastructure across the north of Scotland." said Paul Leddie, Director of Procurement and Commercial at SSEN Transmission.

-- Advertisement --

The framework is organised into six lots to align work packages with contractor capability and project complexity, enabling both regional participation and delivery at national scale:

- Lot 1 – Civils up to £10m (regional): enabling works and access infrastructure

- Lot 2 – Civils over £10m (national): complex, multidisciplinary civils packages

- Lot 3 – Buildings and infrastructure: design and construction of operational buildings

- Lot 4 – Overhead line (OHL) pole construction: design and build of pole-based lines

- Lot 5 – OHL tower construction: design and build of lattice tower lines

- Lot 6 – Underground cable construction: design and installation of cable systems

A standout feature is Lot 1, which has been specifically structured to encourage participation from local suppliers and SMEs. Unlike the other lots, it is divided into regional zones so contractors can bid for defined areas, improving access for businesses based across the north of Scotland. Typical projects include enabling or standalone works such as access tracks, foundations, drainage, public road upgrades, peatland restoration and environmental mitigation.

By adopting this structure, SSEN Transmission aims to create accessible entry points for SMEs and regional suppliers, support the development of skilled local workforces, strengthen regional supply chains and maximise the economic benefits of investment within communities.

The approach reflects a wider commitment to regional economic benefit and maximising local content, with procurement strategies focused on turning investment into tangible outcomes for local areas. It forms part of a broader programme to support jobs, skills and economic growth across the UK, particularly in Scotland.

Working closely with suppliers from an early stage, SSEN Transmission is seeking long-term partnerships to deliver complex infrastructure and lasting community benefits. A more collaborative and forward-looking supply chain model will offer greater visibility of upcoming work, helping suppliers invest with confidence.

The framework is open to both existing partners and new entrants. Organisations of all sizes, especially those based in Scotland, are encouraged to explore the opportunity. Tender documents are available via the Jaggaer procurement portal until Thursday 16 July, and further information can be found on SSEN Transmission's supply chain webpage.