Balfour Beatty has been awarded the first phase of the Netherton Hub project by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Transmission (SSEN Transmission) under its Accelerated Strategic Transmission Investment (ASTI) Offshore Framework. The project marks a significant milestone in strengthening the UK’s electricity transmission network to meet ambitious renewable energy targets and ensure the long-term security of low-carbon power.
The Netherton Hub, located near Peterhead, Aberdeenshire, forms part of SSEN Transmission’s multi-billion-pound ‘Pathway to 2030’ programme. This initiative is designed to accelerate the delivery of grid infrastructure to enable the integration of large-scale offshore wind farms and renewable generation projects across Scotland.
Scope of Balfour Beatty’s appointment
Appointed as the common interface contractor, Balfour Beatty will lead on civil engineering and building works to deliver the Spittal to Peterhead High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Converter Station. The converter station will form a critical part of the Netherton Hub, converting renewable power from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) for efficient long-distance transmission to UK demand centres.
In addition, the contractor will:
• Deliver a 400 kV substation to support both offshore and onshore electricity generation.
• Construct a 132 kV substation to enable future generation and storage connections from third-party developers.
• Support enabling works before moving into full-scale construction in 2026.
This integrated approach will provide essential infrastructure to facilitate the connection of renewable generation projects to the UK’s national transmission network.
Planning and approvals
The Aberdeenshire Council granted planning consent for the Netherton Hub development in 2025, paving the way for the project to move forward. Early contractor involvement by Balfour Beatty has already supported SSEN Transmission in preparing for delivery, ensuring that the project aligns with environmental, technical, and community requirements.
Strategic importance of the Netherton Hub
The Netherton Hub will play a pivotal role in the UK’s transition to net zero by:
• Increasing renewable energy transmission capacity – enabling power generated in the north of Scotland to reach high-demand regions across the country.
• Supporting government climate targets – contributing to the UK and Scottish Governments’ renewable energy ambitions.
• Enhancing energy security – reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels by maximising use of homegrown renewable energy.
• Unlocking economic opportunities – creating hundreds of local jobs, apprenticeships, and graduate placements.
Nick Rowan, Managing Director of Balfour Beatty’s business in Scotland, emphasised the company’s role in delivering complex energy infrastructure: “Our role in delivering this critical infrastructure under the ASTI Offshore Framework will ensure that homegrown renewable power can be transmitted to where it is needed most, while unlocking opportunities for the local supply chain.”
Building a resilient, low-carbon energy future
The awarding of the first phase of the Netherton Hub project to Balfour Beatty marks a significant step forward in delivering the infrastructure required to support the UK’s clean energy transition. By enabling renewable power generated in Scotland to be transmitted across the UK, the hub will directly contribute to national net zero targets, while stimulating economic growth and providing long-term opportunities for the local workforce.
As one of the most strategically important elements of SSEN Transmission’s Pathway to 2030 programme, the Netherton Hub is set to become a cornerstone of the UK’s future electricity transmission network, ensuring a more sustainable, affordable, and secure energy system for decades to come.
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