Fraserburgh firm secures major contract for electricity superhighway project

David Smith Contractors to lead civil works for a vital electricity link between Scotland and England.

A Fraserburgh-based company has recently been awarded a multi-million-pound contract to assist in the construction of an electricity superhighway cable link that will connect Peterhead in Scotland to England. This project is a significant part of a larger initiative aimed at enhancing the electricity transmission network across the region.

Transforming energy infrastructure

The contract involves the construction of a converter station that will integrate a 436 km subsea High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) cable system with the existing electricity network.

David Smith Contractors, led by managing director David Smith, will be responsible for the civil engineering works at the site located near Boddam, just south of Peterhead. Smith expressed optimism about the contract, highlighting its positive impact on both his firm and the local economy.

Local employment and investment

“Everybody wants to be part of a winning story,” Smith remarked, noting that the contract allows him to hire more employees and invest in new equipment.

He emphasized the importance of reinvesting in the local community, stating, “Every payday they pay me, I pay that back to my local employees, and it goes back into the local economy in Peterhead and Fraserburgh.” The project will involve significant excavation work and the use of locally sourced quarried stone to create a stable foundation for the converter station, which is expected to be completed by July next year.

Future prospects and community engagement

Smith reflected on the journey of his company, stating, “It’s been an amazing journey for me and my company.” He also mentioned that there are more projects in the pipeline, indicating a bright future for local contractors. David Smith Contractors currently employs a team of 125 individuals across various projects in Scotland, with a strong focus on training apprentices and fostering young talent in the industry.

Collaboration for a sustainable future

The contract was awarded by BAM Nutall, the principal contractor, in partnership with Hitachi Energy, who are responsible for the delivery of converter stations at both ends of the subsea cable. Once completed, this project will generate enough electricity to power approximately two million homes, significantly contributing to the UK’s energy security and clean power initiatives.

Investment in local communities

Jamie Wallace, the lead project manager for SSEN Transmission at the Peterhead converter station site, emphasized the importance of this announcement. He stated, “This demonstrates how investing in upgrading the electricity grid to transmit green energy and the creation of good quality local jobs go hand in hand.” The commitment to engage with the local supply chain and deliver social value in the community is a priority for the project, ensuring that local employment and business opportunities are maximized throughout the construction phase and beyond.

A significant investment for the future

This initiative is part of a £20 billion investment program led by SSEN Transmission aimed at upgrading the electricity transmission network in northern Scotland. The area surrounding Peterhead is poised to play a crucial role in achieving Scotland and the UK’s energy security and clean power targets. Additionally, SSEN Transmission has submitted a planning application for the Netherton Hub development, which, if approved, will further bolster the local economy.