SSEN Transmission has marked a major milestone in the development of its Netherton Hub near Peterhead, with the handover of the newly formed platforms for its new 400kV and 132kV substations and Spittal to Peterhead High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) converter station.
Representatives from SSEN Transmission, Balfour Beatty and local supply chain partners gathered on site yesterday (Thursday, October 29) to mark the handover, enabling the next phase of construction to get underway.
The new 400kV and 132kV substations and the Spittal to Peterhead HVDC converter station will form part of the wider Netherton Hub, creating a major strategic connection point that will strengthen the north of Scotland’s electricity transmission network and support future renewable energy connections.
The Hub will also include HVDC converter stations associated with Eastern Green Link 3 (EGL3) and Eastern Green Link 5 (EGL5), and forms part of SSEN Transmission’s £29bn investment programme to upgrade the transmission network across the north of Scotland, supporting Scotland and the UK’s clean power and energy security needs.
The handover follows strong progress by local contractors and supply chain partners delivering the extensive earthworks, cable works and platform formation required to prepare the site for the next phase of construction.
The platform for the 400kV and 132kV substations at the Netherton Hub
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.”
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 delivering significant economic benefits for Aberdeenshire and the wider north-east, with a strong focus on local jobs, skills development and regional supply chains. To date, £31.1 million has been spent with Aberdeenshire suppliers on initial works, supporting around 230 local jobs.
David Smith (left) and Kevin Mackenzie, Directors, Power Partners Scotland Ltd
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 Netherton Hub is creating opportunities for the next generation of the local workforce, with graduates, apprentices and trainees gaining valuable experience while helping deliver the project.
Harrison Lindsay
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
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.”