ScottishPower Energy Networks (SPEN), the UK distribution arm of Iberdrola, has announced a €262 million (£220 million) investment to modernise and expand over 20,000 km of electricity grid infrastructure across Scotland and North West England. The initiative, part of SPEN’s ED2 business plan (2023–2028), supports the UK’s transition to electrification and net-zero goals while laying groundwork for the next regulatory cycle (ED3).
“We are set to invest more than £220 million to help deliver the electricity grid and support the workforce of the future,” said Nicola Connelly, CEO of SPEN.
Boosting Jobs and Skills
The investment will support over 500 jobs, including more than 50 new linesmen roles. It also aims to bolster regional employment through skills development, apprenticeships, and the recruitment of local talent.
Partner companies will play a key role in this effort, with commitments to expand training programs and grow their regional workforces.
“Ensuring we have the partners, resources and technical skills in place to deliver on our bold and ambitious plans for our network is vital for the modern and resilient grid needed to support the doubling of demand,” Connelly added.
Strategic Supply Chain Partnerships
SPEN has extended long-term contracts with six specialist overhead line firms to carry out the infrastructure upgrade:
- Scotland: Aureos, Gaeltec, PLPC
- England and Wales: Emerald Power, IES Utilities Group, Network Plus
These partnerships are designed to enhance long-term supply chain resilience and innovation in the energy sector.
Partner Reactions
Partner firms welcomed the investment as a vote of confidence in the UK energy sector and a catalyst for business and workforce growth.
“This is great news for both Gaeltec and our employees, giving certainty looking ahead and creating confidence to grow our investment in our business and our people,” said Daniel Rodrigues, Managing Director at Gaeltec.
“This is an extremely significant milestone… and enables a fantastic opportunity for anyone across the communities we serve to have a very fulfilling and rewarding career,” added Adrian Rowley of Emerald Power.
“We have invested heavily in recruiting local trainees and will continue to upskill our existing staff while increasing trainee intakes to deliver on SPEN’s investment programme,” said Iain Thomson of Aureos.
Conor O’Neill of IES Utilities Group called the contract extension “a testament to the collaborative efforts and shared commitment between SPEN and IES.”
Driving the UK’s Energy Transition
This infrastructure programme solidifies ScottishPower’s role as a key player in the UK’s sustainable energy transformation. By reinforcing the national grid and investing in the local workforce, the company is positioning itself—and the communities it serves—for long-term resilience and growth in the clean energy economy.
Scottishpower Headquarters from scottishpower.com
