Contractors are being sought for £4.5 billion of initial work as part of a major overhaul of the UK’s electricity network.
National Network issued a recruitment notice for its Great Grid Upgrade Partnership, which covers electricity transmission infrastructure works planned for 2030.
The London-based utility giant described it as the “biggest network overhaul in generations”. It’s part of an effort to bring more clean energy into homes and help the UK get to net zero faster.
Between four and six construction companies are to deliver infrastructure such as new lines and overhead substations, National Grid said. Two design and consent service partners are also required.
The total value of the contract is £9.28 billion, which covers the additional electricity transmission network projects needed to reach net zero by 2050.
The initial agreement will be for eight years, but is renewable for up to 12 years, according to the contract announcement.
Matt Staley, director of land delivery at National Grid, said: “In our Great Grid Upgrade Partnership, we are looking for supply chain partners with a track record of successful collaboration, innovation, sustainable practices and a commitment to responsible business” .
The project will initially focus on nine land-based projects in England and Wales.
Staley added: “By working together, we can connect more clean and renewable energy from where it is generated at sea to where it is needed, helping to contribute to lower energy bills in the long term, providing a catalyst for a boom in places of green jobs and making the UK’s energy more self-sufficient.”
Earlier this month, FTSE 100-listed National Grid reported a 4% rise in annual pre-tax profit to £3.59 billion. Chief executive John Pettigrew called it “another year of significant progress”.
