SSEN Transmission has published fresh economic analysis detailing the benefits expected from its planned £29 billion programme to build and upgrade electricity transmission infrastructure across the north of Scotland.

Framed as a central plank in delivering secure, affordable clean power for Scotland and the UK, the programme is described as one of the largest private infrastructure investments in Scotland’s history over the next five years.

The study, Re‑energising the North: Transforming Scotland, updates the company’s earlier economic case for critical grid reinforcement. Built on advanced economic modelling techniques commonly used by governments and validated by independent experts, the report acknowledges potential short‑term pressures from major construction but concludes that the longer‑term economic dividends are substantial and lasting.

According to the findings, the programme is projected to support up to 10,000 jobs in the north of Scotland and 24,000 across Scotland. When combined with other transmission operators’ spending and new generation projects, the overall investment could add around £60bn to UK economic output, with Scotland’s economy up to 3% larger over the long term. The report anticipates durable gains in productivity, wages and resilience as workers move into higher‑value roles and key sectors expand, alongside significant opportunities for domestic supply chains spanning forestry, peatland restoration, aggregates and concrete.

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The analysis stresses the importance of ensuring local communities capture the benefits through skilled employment, supplier growth and targeted investment. It also sets out how grid expansion will unlock additional private capital in renewables by connecting new projects and moving lower‑cost, homegrown energy to where it is needed. The report concludes there can be no successful energy transition without transmission infrastructure — and no sustainable transition unless benefits are shared with the communities that host it.

Rob McDonald, Managing Director of SSEN Transmission, said: "Here in Scotland, we’re entering a period of unprecedented investment in our electricity transmission network, with significant upgrades planned across the north of the country over the coming decade.

"Our investment programme represents one of the most substantial developments of the transmission network in its history, providing the infrastructure needed to support a more secure, flexible and low-carbon energy system.

“This report highlights the wider benefits that come with that investment – from supporting jobs and supply chains to helping deliver sustainable economic growth across the communities and regions we serve."