SSEN Transmission has reached a key milestone at its Netherton Hub near Peterhead, handing over the newly completed platforms for a 400kV substation, a 132kV substation and the Spittal to Peterhead High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) converter station. The transfer paves the way for the next phase of construction to begin.

Representatives from SSEN Transmission, Balfour Beatty and local supply chain partners gathered on site yesterday (Thursday, 29 October) to mark the handover, enabling main works to proceed.

Together, the new substations and the Spittal to Peterhead HVDC converter station will sit within the wider Netherton Hub, creating a strategic connection point that will reinforce the north of Scotland's electricity transmission network and facilitate future renewable generation connections.

The Hub will also host HVDC converter stations for Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3) and Eastern Green Link 5 (EGL5). It forms part of SSEN Transmission's £29bn programme to upgrade the transmission network across the north of Scotland, supporting clean power ambitions and the UK's energy security.

The handover follows strong progress by local contractors and supply chain partners, who have delivered extensive earthworks, cable installations and platform formation to ready the site for main construction.

Sandy Mactaggart, Director of Offshore Delivery at SSEN Transmission, said: "The handover of these platforms marks another major step forward for Netherton Hub and means we can now prepare to move into the next phase of construction on this strategically important development.

"These works have progressed at pace over the summer months, thanks to the excellent relationships and close collaboration between SSEN Transmission, Balfour Beatty and its wider supply chain, including the local businesses supporting the project. This strong partnership has enabled us to maintain that momentum while upholding the highest standards of quality and safety throughout.

"The Netherton Hub will create a major strategic connection point on the transmission network, helping transport increasing volumes of clean, homegrown renewable electricity to the homes, businesses and industries that need it. The progress we're seeing on site is another important step towards delivering that vital new infrastructure."

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Nick Rowan, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty's Scotland Business said: "The successful handover of the first two platforms marks a significant milestone, reflecting the strong collaboration between our teams, SSEN Transmission and local supply chain partners in preparing the site for this next phase of delivery.

"As construction of the substations and HVDC converter station gets underway, we are proud to be playing a key role in delivering the infrastructure that will strengthen Scotland's electricity network, enable the integration of renewable energy at scale and support the UK's energy security ambitions."

Supporting local jobs and businesses, the Netherton Hub is already providing a boost to the regional economy. To date, £31.1 million has been spent with Aberdeenshire suppliers on initial works, supporting around 230 local jobs.

Kevin Mackenzie, Director, Power Partners Scotland Ltd, said: "The platform handover is a proud moment for everyone involved and demonstrates the opportunities major energy infrastructure projects can create for local businesses.

"Power Partners brings together two well-established Scottish contractors, Fraserburgh-based David Smith Contractors Ltd and Ground Developments Ltd. From the outset, we've focused on keeping as much of the economic benefit as possible within the local area, supporting jobs and creating opportunities for local suppliers.

"At its peak, our work directly supported 79 roles, including 28 new appointments and three apprentices and trainees. It has also given our businesses the confidence to invest in additional premises locally, supporting further jobs and helping ensure these benefits extend beyond the site itself."

Kevin Taylor, Director of Ellon-based JKR Contractors Ltd, said: "This is an important milestone as we prepare to begin our main construction works, and we're proud to be playing a part in delivering this major investment in Scotland's energy infrastructure.

"Our involvement is expected to support more than 35 local jobs, including four to six apprenticeships, while creating opportunities for local suppliers and subcontractors. It's fantastic to be contributing to a project that will help meet the country's future energy needs while supporting local jobs, developing skills and delivering wider benefits for businesses across the area."

Supporting the young workforce, the project is offering hands-on roles for graduates, apprentices and trainees, helping to build local skills for the future.

Harrison Lindsay, Trainee Site Supervisor with SSEN Transmission, said: "I've been working here for around three months, and it's already been an invaluable experience learning from people with a lifetime of knowledge in the construction industry. Being part of such a large, professional team has shown me just how much work goes into successfully delivering a clean energy project like this.

"The Netherton Hub will bring benefits to the local area and the wider country for years to come, and I'm proud to know I'll have played a part in delivering something so positive in my local community. It's brilliant to be able to work close to home while building my career."

Brooke Stein, a Graduate Site Engineer with Balfour Beatty, said: "Working on the Netherton Hub has been a brilliant experience and has given me opportunities early in my career that I wouldn't necessarily get elsewhere.

"I've been trusted with real responsibility, worked alongside some very experienced people and developed both professionally and personally. It's fantastic knowing I'm working on something that will leave a legacy for Scotland's clean energy future."