Freedom wins £130m Scottish electricity contract

Power engineering services provider Freedom has won a £130m from Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) Distribution as part of its large capital delivery framework across the north of Scotland.

The contract will see Freedom, which is part of Leeds-based NG Bailey, carrying out projects across the Highlands and in Orkney, with work such as the renewal and reinforcement of SSEN’s network of wooden poles and overhead lines, upgrading and updating its substations and making improvements to the underground cable network.

The work being undertaken by Freedom and SSEN’s teams is designed to boost network resilience in the face of a more volatile climate, support the connection of low-carbon technologies and decarbonised industries, and increase reliability for every customer.

Carl Clay, managing director of Freedom, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded the contract to assist SSEN in upgrading the electrical infrastructure across the Highlands and in Orkney. This partnership underscores Freedom’s commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality and sustainable solutions that support critical infrastructure projects.

“By working closely with SSEN, we aim to bring our expertise, agility and collaborative approach to ensure the successful delivery of projects that drive energy resilience and support the communities they serve. This framework represents a significant step in our journey to build long-term partnerships that align with our values and commitment to operational excellence.”

SSEN’s director of large capital delivery, Fraser Hood, added: “The job of helping deliver net zero and its benefits for society is an enormous one, but this record investment from SSEN in the north of Scotland means we’re in the best possible position to effectively and efficiently deliver the fit-for-purpose electricity system for the future.

“In selecting Freedom as our contract partner after a fair, open, and competitive tendering process, we’ve secured the ability to deliver our massive programme of investment. This will ensure increased resilience, flexibility, and capacity for our 800,000 customers in the north of Scotland.”