National Grid reveals contractor for £363mn electric-network reinforcement project

Electric-power line and pylons run through rural Suffolk, England, UK. (Image: Adobe Stock)

Delivered through National Grid’s RIIO-2 framework, the replacement and reinforcement of electric utilities will serve the East Anglia network to “ensure that it can continue to reliably and securely transport the cleaner greener electric required for the UK’s transition to net zero,” said Balfour Beatty.

The contractor will replace the existing high-voltage electricity network between Bramford Substation in Suffolk and Twinstead Tee in Essex. Balfour Beatty will also install a new 18km, 400-kilovolt overhead line and deliver 11km of underground cable through Dedham Vale National Landscape and Stour Valley.

“The company will work closely with ecologists and conservationists throughout to mitigate any disruption to local wildlife and has committed to delivering a 10% biodiversity net gain over the project lifecycle,” added Balfour Beatty.

The contractor estimated the project will employ more than 200 people including ten apprentice and graduate positions.

Leo Quinn, the firm’s CEO, noted more energy transition projects are likely in Balfour Beatty’s future.

“This award demonstrates the momentum we are capturing in the energy security and transition market,” he said.

Principal construction is scheduled to commence in the first half of 2025 with completion expected in 2028.