Tag: SP Energy Networks

SP Energy Networks and Buglife get Scotland’s Central Belt buzzing with a wildlife highway

WORLD EARTH DAY – WEDNESDAY 22 APRIL

SP Energy Networks has joined forces with conservation charity Buglife to transform Scotland’s Central Belt into a thriving, connected network of wildflower-rich habitats and nesting sites, providing a vital lifeline for bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects.

Through the Pollinator B-Lines project, SP Energy Networks and Buglife will repurpose unused land at several electrical substations including Busby, Leven, Livingston East and Drumcross, turning them from barren grass patches into wildlife havens.

Using a mix of wildflower seed sowing, plug planting and the installation of bee posts for nesting, the sites will be transformed into nectar-rich grasslands and sheltered breeding areas. Together, these spaces will act as “stepping-stone” habitats, helping insects move across the landscape and creating connected green corridors for species to move, feed and thrive.

SP Energy Networks,Buglife and Tom Angel Studio – an environmental subcontractor completing landscaping works as part of the project – were buzzing with excitement as they installed bee posts in Busby, providing essential nesting habitats to protect and nurture solitary bees and wasps, which are among the world’s most important insects. 

As part of the wider habitat works at the site, 150 metres of mixed native hedgerow have been planted, alongside plans to sow wildflowers into the existing grassland to encourage more insects into the area. The bespoke bee posts were designed by Tom Angel of Tom Angel Studio and made by a local Glasgow carpenter from untreated Scottish Larch.

Kelly Murray, Conservation Officer – Pollinators B-Lines at Buglife Scotland said: “Many of Scotland’s bees, butterflies and hoverflies are struggling in today’s modern landscapes. Creating safe, connected spaces for them to feed and nest is essential.

“By working with SP Energy Networks, we’re transforming unused land into a network of wildflower-rich habitats that reconnects the Central Belt. It’s a simple idea, but one that can make a meaningful difference, support wildlife recovery and help nature thrive again.”

To ensure the project delivers benefits well beyond the initial planting, the partners are developing long-term management plans for each site. These plans will support the successful establishment of the habitats and ensure they continue to benefit wildlife and local communities for years to come.

Tayler Henderson, Sustainability Specialist at SP Energy Networks said: “Partnering with Buglife has allowed us to breathe new life into the land around our substations, creating new wildflower habitats across the Central Belt.

“By investing in habitat creation and a long-term commitment to managing these sites, we’re helping to build a more resilient environment for wildlife across the region while we build the network needed for a cleaner and greener future.

“At SP Energy Networks, we’re committed to minimising our impact on nature and improving our understanding of how our network interacts with the surrounding environment to deliver ‘nature-positive’ outcomes. Our partnership with Buglife is a brilliant example of that in action – in fact, you could say it’s the bees’ knees!”

Around 240 of the UK’s 270 bee species are solitary, living independently rather than in colonies and producing no honey. These insects nest individually, often in dead plant stems, small holes in wood or the ground, and play a vital role in pollination. By installing specially designed bee posts and creating nectar-rich habitats, the project provides the food and shelter these essential pollinators need to thrive.

The initiative forms part of Buglife’s wider B-Lines programme, a UK-wide network of insect pathways linking towns and countryside through wildflower corridors. By reconnecting habitats, the programme aims to restore at least 150,000 hectares of flower-rich land across the UK, helping wildlife access food and shelter while being able to move more freely.

The project is part of SP Energy Networks’ Action Plan for Nature, a commitment to halt and reverse biodiversity loss through targeted habitat creation and restoration.

By delivering projects like Pollinator B-Lines, SP Energy Networks ensures that investment in its network not only keeps homes and businesses powered but also protects Scotland’s natural environment and benefits local communities.

Edinburgh & Lothian families to receive free storm‑safety storybook from SP Energy Networks

SP ENERGY NETWORKS BRINGS STORM SAFETY TO STORYTIME

Meet the tiny puppies taking on Britain’s wildest weather by teaching kids how to stay safe in a power cut, as top kids author-illustrator Emily MacKenzie reveals the exciting Stormy Night children’s book every family needs this winter.

Two fearless puppies are taking on storm season in a new bedtime story that could save the day in a power cut – Walter and Skye’s Stormy Night.

Award‑winning children’s author‑illustrator Emily MacKenzie has partnered with distribution network operator SP Energy Networks to create a new playbook for power cuts. Released at the height of the UK’s storm season, this new storybook helps families stay cosy and safe if the lights go out.

Perfect for children under five, the story is tailormade for bedtime or nursery reading. The wind howls, the lights flicker and heroic puppies Walter and Skye start their new adventure as a storm blows in. The brother‑and‑sister duo will face their fear of the dark and take on a power cut – thanks to a special storm kit they prepared before the weather turned.

The new book will hit nurseries, libraries and playgroups across Central & Southern Scotland, North Wales, Merseyside and Cheshire over the course of this winter. Over 2,000 print copies are being shared across SP Energy Networks’ patch, with a free online version available through the company’s website.

Author Emily MacKenzie has twice been shortlisted for the Bookbug Picture Book Prize and is known for her colourful illustrations made using coloured pencils, pens, gouache, inks and rubber stamps.

Her books include Wanted! Ralfy, Rabbit Book Burglar, Stanley the Amazing Knitting Cat, Eric Makes a Splash! and Help! Ralfy Rabbit and the Great Library Rescue.

Emily MacKenzie said: “I loved the idea of turning a wild, windy night into something exciting rather than scary. Walter and Skye are the kind of friends you’d want by your side when the lights go out – curious, brave and ready to spring into action!

“As I painted each page, I thought about the families who might read it together, wrapped up in blankets, learning these simple tips without even realising they’re learning. My hope is that children will remember the characters and when a storm comes along, SP Energy Networks makes them feel ready and safe.”

The book packs in SP Energy Networks’ top tips for staying safe, warm and prepared during storm season – from keeping a wind-up torch within reach and a power bank fully charged, to knowing the emergency helpline number and signing up for the free Priority Services Register if you need extra support.

Kendal Morris, Customer Service Director at SP Energy Networks, said: “We’re always looking for innovative ways to help our customers prepare for bad weather so partnering with the incredible Emily MacKenzie to create a children’s story felt like a great way to engage families.

“While power cuts are rare, it’s really important that parents and all our customers know what to do if the lights go out. Our teams are working round the clock this winter to keep the power flowing.”

The book is part of a partnership with Scottish Book Trust to help the story reach as many families as possible. On Thursday 5 February, SP Energy Networks teamed up with Bookbug for a special family‑friendly live reading at Central Children’s Library in Edinburgh.

Children, parents and carers joined author Emily MacKenzie in person at a Bookbug Session, heard the story come to life and took home a signed copy to treasure. Scottish Book Trust also shared the story through its Bookbug network and free app, helping it reach thousands of families nationwide.

Marc Lambert, CEO at Scottish Book Trust, said: “Stories are a wonderful way for children and families to bond, and Walter and Skye’s Stormy Night does just that. It’s a charming story with beautiful illustrations that will help families to be prepared for stormy winter weather.

“We’re proud to share this adventure through Bookbug, and help the book to reach families across the country.”

Families can get their hands on the new book for free on the SP Energy Networks website: 

https://www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/pages/walters_skyes_stormy_night.aspx

Meet the linesman working on live power lines and keeping customers on supply

Award-winning TV presenter and broadcaster Jennifer Reoch has joined forces once again with SP Energy Networks to spotlight the storm heroes – dedicated teams who work tirelessly each winter to keep the power flowing.

This year, Jennifer visited a live work site in Dumfries and Galloway to meet the specialist Live Line Hands On team, highly trained linesmen who carry out essential maintenance and repairs on overhead power lines without switching off the electricity supply.

Working at height and often in the aftermath of severe storms, the team use specialist access equipment along with insulated gloves & sleeves which enable them to carry out works while homes and businesses remain connected during the harshest winter conditions.

Winter storms and extreme weather can cause significant damage to power lines, making it essential for SP Energy Networks’ teams to be ready to respond quickly to keep disruption to a minimum. The Live Line Hands On team play a vital role in that effort, repairing faults while the network stays live, helping to reduce power outages and disruptions for local communities.

This marks the second year Jennifer has partnered with the UK’s leading electricity network operator to celebrate its Storm Shielders. During her visit, Jennifer experienced first-hand how SP Energy Networks supports communities in preparing for extreme weather and saw the skill and resilience required to keep the power flowing and the lights on.

Jennifer said of the campaign: “Winter weather can be demanding and unpredictable, and it’s easy to overlook the work happening behind the scenes to keep our electricity supply running 24/7. Spending the day with the Live Line Hands On team gave me a rare insight into the specialist work the team carry out in tough winter conditions to keep the power flowing.

“What struck me most is the Storm Shielders’ commitment to the communities they serve, going above and beyond to keep people safe and supported when the weather is at its worst.”

Jennifer is fronting a new series of videos with SP Energy Networks’ Storm Shielders, taking viewers behind the scenes to celebrate these unsung heroes. The series will shine a spotlight on the people, technology, and teamwork that keeps electricity running through the most challenging winter weather.

Stuart McConnachie, District General Manager at SP Energy Networks, added: “Our customers are at the centre of everything we do, and the Live Line Hands On team are dedicated to ensuring repairs to power lines are made without any disruption. We were delighted to have Jennifer join us for a day on site to meet our Storm Shielders and see the important work they do, much of which many people may not realise is happening behind the scenes.

“Spotlighting the tireless work our teams do is important because it shows the commitment that goes into keeping communities connected. We encourage customers to follow our top tips to make sure they’re ready for whatever winter brings, and to know what to do if the power does go out.”

SP Energy Networks’ top tips for staying safe in the unlikely event of a power cut include:

  • Ensure you store a battery-powered or wind-up torch in an easily accessible location so you can use it to check the fuse box and navigate around your home safely.
  • Power lines may fall because of stormy weather so beware of this when venturing out of your home. Always treat them as live, stay away and report them right away by calling 105.
  • Having your mobile phone charged means you can give SP Energy Networks a call on the national 105 emergency helpline. Please don’t assume we know if your power is out, so call us right away.
  • If your power does go out, your heating might not work, so keep extra blankets nearby and close window shutters, blinds or curtains to help keep the heat in.
  • Teams work around the clock to restore electricity as quickly as possible but customers who feel they need extra support may be eligible for the Priority Services Register. Visit the SP Energy Networks website or call 0330 10 10 167 for more information.
  • Make sure we have up-to-date contact details for you, so we can keep in touch with you as appropriate.

Could this small Scottish community lead the way in clean energy engagement?

East Lammermuir’s Pioneering Approach to Energy Projects

Believed to be the UK’s first Energy Projects Partnership Manager, a pioneering initiative in East Lothian is helping the transition to clean energy.

Up to 14 new electricity infrastructure projects are proposed for the East Lammermuir area, and the local community wanted to ensure that, once all new infrastructure is built and operational, the area is left better than it is today. At the same time, some of the developers in the region recognised the need for a more joined-up way of working. As a result, East Lammermuir is at the forefront of a new approach to community engagement. 

Co-ordinating this effort is the Energy Projects Partnership Manager, a unique role  helping balance the needs of the environment, local residents, East Lothian Council, and the many energy developers working in the area. It’s an approach that could shape how other communities and energy companies can work better together in the future.

Energy Projects Partnership Manager Beth Landon has just marked her first six months in post. Beth operates as a bridge between developers, residents, and East Lothian Council, helping all parties navigate competing priorities and complex plans.

Beth said: “For the communities where these developments are taking place, the pace and complexity of change can be challenging. And where multiple projects are happening at once, communities can struggle to stay informed and engaged.

“The construction of substations, grid connections, wind farms, and transmission lines can feel overwhelming, even when residents support the principle of a greener future. As the much-needed transition to clean energy grows, it is vital we learn lessons from the past, bringing communities and developers together early on with an agreed, collaborative approach. 

“I was attracted to this role because I saw an intention for all the partners to combine forces behind the implementation of a community-led vision for East Lammermuir, one in which the community is an equal partner and has genuine agency, which is articulated in their Local Place Plan.

“The potential to carve out a new approach together is incredibly exciting and I feel extremely privileged to be working alongside such a visionary community.”

The post is funded by SP Energy Networks (SPEN) and SSE Renewables, and supported by a wider steering group of energy businesses, East Lothian Council and chaired by East Lammermuir Community Council. 

Beth’s role is hosted and supported by Foundation Scotland, an independent charity already familiar with the area and trusted by local partners, offering both independence and expertise. Foundation Scotland worked with the steering group to develop Beth’s role, and as host, provides her with access to a broad national network of those who work on community benefit and other citizen-led funding models. 

Chris Bruce, Chair of the local Community Council said: “The pace of change proposed in East Lammermuir has heaped lots of additional work on the eight members of the community council.

“Whilst we have tried to step up as volunteers and respond as best we can, having a reliable, almost full-time person working constantly has made a huge difference to what we can achieve in trying to make the best of the unavoidable developments that are happening around us.”

Since starting in post, Beth has made significant progress in building relationships with local residents and ensuring that communication around the various energy projects is clear, timely, and accessible.

Engagement is improving with key local forums such as the Traffic and Biodiversity Groups which play a vital role in connecting community priorities with developer plans. Beth has also supported the Community Council in developing a strategy for managing incoming community benefit funds, ensuring that local investment reflects long-term aspirations. 

Residents from the Community Traffic and Travel forum said: “In just six months, Beth’s calm and purposeful approach has transformed a community frantically battling with a complex tangle of energy development projects and proposals into a well-coordinated programme.

“Beth is an invaluable single point of contact holding regular meaningful meetings with developers and the community alike. Beth provides clear and timely updates that allow the East Lammermuir community to feel that they have a voice that gets heard.  We are moving from firefighting to clear communication management and forward-planning of community benefit projects.”

There is already growing interest in and recognition of East Lammermuir’s model. In a national landscape where energy developments are expanding fast and public trust can be fragile, this small East Lothian community has shown that there is another way forward – one built on dialogue, partnership, transparency, and respect – quietly shaping how communities and industry can work together to power a fairer, greener future.

SP Energy Networks prepares 3.5m homes and businesses for adverse weather this winter

SP Energy Networks is planning to engage with 3.5 million homes and businesses, including customers across Edinburgh and The Lothians, over the coming weeks, as it helps local communities prepare for adverse weather ahead of winter.

This critical safety campaign forms part of a wider UK roll-out of communication to customers across Central & Southern Scotland, Cheshire, Merseyside, North & Mid Wales and North Shropshire, giving vital advice on how to stay safe and supported during a power cut.

By engaging with households, SP Energy Networks aims to help customers better understand what to do if the lights go out, who can access extra support through the free Priority Services Register, and the measures SP Energy Networks takes every day to keep communities safe and the power flowing.

Even though power cuts don’t happen often, being prepared can make all the difference. That’s why SP Energy Networks are sharing four simple steps everyone can take to prepare for a power cut.

To get prepared ahead of adverse weather, SP Energy Networks’ recommends:

1. Save the 105 number in your phone or write it down somewhere safe.

2. Keep a torch and some new batteries nearby.

3. Charge your phone and any power packs.

4. Have some extra blankets or warm clothes ready.

SP Energy Networks is also encouraging those who may need extra support in the event of a power cut – including people with medical equipment at home, those over 60, households with children under 5, or anyone who feels they could use additional support – to sign up to the Priority Services Register.

This free service provides tailored help and proactive updates when there are problems in a customer’s area, as well as offering a 24/7 dedicated helpline number to contact.

Kendal Morris, Customer Services Director at SP Energy Networks, said: “At SP Energy Networks, keeping our customers safe and supported is our top priority.

“While power cuts are rare, being prepared can make a big difference. That’s why we’re delivering vital safety messaging directly to homes across Edinburgh and The Lothians to make sure everyone has clear, practical advice on what to do if the lights go out.

“From knowing the national 105 number to signing up for our free Priority Services Register, this vital information helps customers feel confident and reassured that they’re ready for any eventuality this winter.”

SP Energy Networks plans to distribute over 3.5 million leaflets directly to households and businesses over the next month, with all homes across Edinburgh and The Lothians receiving a leaflet by the 20th of October.

The distribution of these leaflets forms part of the company’s ongoing commitment to ensuring customers have the information they need to feel safe, supported, and prepared.

For more information and guidance on how to prepare for a power cut, visit: 

www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/powercut

Paw Patrol takes on Automated Intelligence to keep electricity flowing

From automated intelligence, drones and lasers to man’s best friend, SP Energy Networks is leaving no stone unturned to keep the lights on amid the worst of weather this Winter. 

The power firm, which keeps electricity flowing to 6 million people across 3.5 million homes and businesses, has beentrialling the use of a specially trained detection dog to help find some of the network issues that could lead to power cuts.

Jac the springer spaniel had a 100% success rate at a recent visit to an SPEN site where an artificial fault had been created to test the dog’s abilities, finding the location under asphalt on the first attempt. The cunning canine also used his nose to point to another fault it hadn’t been expected to find.

The plucky pup will now form a small part of SPEN’s wider arsenal against the worst the weather can throw at the power network this winter.

The network operator already expects to see fewer faults needing repair thanks to an innovative system that can spot potential faults before they even happen.

In a UK first, a new LV (Low Voltage) Support Room based in Cambuslang near Glasgow is using advanced monitoring technology to provide real-time information on supplies across its operating area north and south of the border. 

It analyses data produced by smart meters and electricity substations to highlight where a potential fault might occur on the network, helping engineers find exact locations where repairs are required, sometimes before power drops and customers are even aware of an issue. 

It was established as a permanent part of SP Energy Networks’ operations following a trial that identified 30 ‘pre-faults’, saving an estimated £60,000 in equipment damage, stopping power cuts, and reducing the amount of time customers were without electricity during repairs. 

All of which complements the inspections of the poles and wires that transport electricity around the country that’s been ongoing all year round.

Using drones to identify areas of maintenance and helicopters equipped with LIDAR laser technology that scans whether trees have grown too close to power lines, the company has been carrying out inspections and maintenance at key locations.

Scott Mathieson, SPEN’s network planning and regulation director, said: “Our teams prepare for winter weather all year round and we’re working hard to be ‘storm ready’ for the months ahead. 

“It’s important we explore every avenue to either prevent the unplanned outages weather can bring or to make sure that, ifthey do occur, we can restore power to people’s homes and businesses as quickly and as safely as possible.

“Our cutting-edge technology means we can see in real-time how the network is both operating and being used. We’ll continue to innovate to keep the lights on for our customers – and it’s been interesting to see how man’s best friend can help out too.”

SP Energy Networks is responsible for 105,000km of network and 30,000 substations. The normally storm-resilient networkwas severely damaged in places when Storm Arwen brought winds of over 110mph in places. 

Scott Mathieson added: “In general we’ve have seen around 25% fewer faults caused by winter weather than a decade ago,which is down to the investment in making the network more resilient.

“Storm Arwen was unlike anything we have seen in recent memory with wind speeds last measured as high in the 1950s. However, it’s a stark reminder of the impact extreme weather can have and the unplanned outages that can result.

“When weather-related power cuts happen, we will work around the clock to get supplies back on but we always encourage our customers to be prepared just in case.”

SP Energy Networks is also reminding all customers ahead of the winter season to ensure they keep the national 105 emergency power cut number close to hand so they can call them if their power does go out unexpectedly – no matter who they pay their bill to. 

They are also promoting other essential safety advice to ensure customers are storm-ready, such as, storing a battery powered torch at home, being extremely careful to avoid fallen power lines and keeping their mobile phones charged to help them should a power cut occur.

Edinburgh College launches new Renewables and Energy Efficiency Training Centre

Edinburgh College has officially opened a new Renewables and Energy Efficiency Training Centre aimed at helping people save energy in their homes, thanks to funding from SP Energy Networks.

The new facility will see students, apprentices and industry professionals learn how to use cutting edge equipment and develop skills required to build low energy homes, and to modify existing homes to become more energy efficient.

The centre, housed at the College’s Granton Campus, was opened by Edinburgh College Vice Principal Jonny Pearson, alongside speakers including Jillian Violaris of SP Energy Networks and John Renwick of Energy Skills Partnership (ESP).

Equipment featured in the new centre includes: ground source heat pumps, air source pumps, solar thermal systems, rainwater and greywater harvesting, SIPS eco panels, underfloor heating systems, and latest gas appliance condensing boiler technology supplied by Worcester Bosch.

The focus for the centre is to train students and apprentices in these technologies, while also supporting those in industry to reskill and upskill, using high-class equipment under the guidance of Edinburgh College lecturing staff.

The centre has been funded by SP Energy Networks’ Green Economy Fund and managed via the ESP.

ESP is a collaboration of Scotland’s colleges and industry partners established to increase Scotland’s capability and capacity to deliver the right skills for the energy, engineering and construction sectors.

ESP were awarded £500,000 in 2019 from the SP Energy Networks Green Economy Fund, which was established in 2018 by the electricity network operator for Central and Southern Scotland.

SP Energy Networks’ Green Economy Fund supports the delivery of the Scottish Government’s ambitious plans to meet climate change targets, boost local economic growth, improve air quality across the country and deliver a better future, quicker for local communities.

In order to manage the project, ESP established the Energy Efficiency Training Network comprising of nine colleges to launch new training centres including across Scotland.

Edinburgh College Vice Principal, Jon Buglass, said: “It’s a privilege to open our new Renewables and Energy Efficiency Training Centre at our Granton Campus.

“The centre will provide students, apprentices and those within the supply chain with access to a state-of-the-art place to learn new and existing technologies. It is incumbent on us as one of Scotland’s largest colleges to play our part in ensuring those in industry can embed these skills early in their careers, understand them and start to use them to build houses for the future – helping the nation to move towards net zero.

“Our thanks go to Scottish Power Energy Networks, Energy Skills Partnership, Worcester Bosch and other partners for the support in creating this new facility.”

Jillian Violaris, Green Economy Fund Manager at SP Energy Networks, said:“Edinburgh College’s new Renewables and Energy Efficiency Training Centre will support the skills needed to help the country achieve net zero emissions.

“Rapid change will be needed across the nation in the coming years and the new training hub will support the development of the next generation of green experts that will deliver it.

“When establishing the Green Economy Fund, it was clear that delivering clean energy transition in our communities would require a future workforce with the right skills, that’s why education plays a vital role in the move to a low carbon economy.”

Jim Brown, Director at ESP, said: “The SP Energy Networks Green Economy Fund project has realised a massive impact for colleges across central and southern Scotland in developing the capability and capacity to deliver the future skills industry needed to support government’s commitment to reach Net Zero by 2045.

“This flagship education project supported nine new centres with investment in capital equipment which positions colleges at the forefront of upskilling and training for industry.

“It has been a true partnership with government, industry and colleges working together to address the skills challenges in reducing carbon emissions, supporting green growth and the just transition to Net Zero. ESP is delighted to have facilitated this project alongside Edinburgh College.”

Sunamp aims to reduce heating bills for vulnerable Edinburgh residents with new technology

Tranent-based thermal energy storage firm Sunamp has been awarded over £396,000 from SP Energy Networks’ Green Economy Fund to deliver innovative micro-district heating networks, which will reduce heating bills for fuel-poor and vulnerable people while also decreasing carbon emissions in Edinburgh.

The funding from SP Energy Networks’ Green Economy Fund has enabled Sunamp to provide five, micro-district heating networks that will produce low carbon heating for more than 50 Edinburgh residents.

The pioneering micro-district heating system aims to save over 75% on carbon emissions compared to gas boilers as well as providing the opportunity to recover heat from buildings with large occupancy and high passive heat gains in order to transfer it to the Edinburgh properties requiring heat.

Sunamp is being funded as part of SP Energy Networks’ £20 million Green Economy Fund, which supports the UK and Scottish Government’s ambitious plans to meet climate change targets. The fund also aims to boost local economic growth, improve air quality across the country and deliver a better future, quicker for all.

SP Energy Networks is part of the ScottishPower group, a Principal Partner for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) to be held in Glasgow in November.

It is developing an energy model that will play a significant role towards reaching the UK’s world-leading climate change targets and is investing a total of £10 billion in the clean energy generation and networks infrastructure needed to help the UK decarbonise and reach Net Zero emissions.

Frank Mitchell, CEO at SP Energy Networks, said: “Our Green Economy Fund is committed to ensuring that no one is left behind on the road to net zero emissions and this project provides critical support to local communities that are affected by fuel poverty.

“We know that Sunamp micro-district heating systems will make a significant difference to vulnerable residents in Edinburgh by making homes more energy efficient and bringing costs down so residents can keep their homes warm ahead of the winter months.

“We’re very proud to be funding this innovative project and supporting energy projects focused on tackling the decarbonisation of heat.”

Andrew Bissell, Sunamp Chief Executive: “SP Energy Networks and Sunamp share a vision of a world powered by affordable and sustainable energy. We couldn’t be more grateful for the support we’ve received from the Green Economy Fund as the new micro-district heating networks will provide heat to some of the most vulnerable people in Scotland’s capital.

“Sunamp is passionate about making buildings more energy efficient, sustainable and self-sufficient, whilst also reducing carbon emissions and SP Energy Networks’ funding has supported us in transforming how we heat and cool our buildings going forward”.

So far, 35 projects have been awarded funding from SP Energy Networks across Central and Southern Scotland.

To find out more about the Green Economy Fund and the projects it supports, please visit: www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/pages/green_economy_fund.aspx

Largest recruitment drive this century for SP Energy Networks

  • SP Energy Networks has launched a recruitment drive for 152 green jobs to help support multi-billion pound network investment
  • Roles in engineering, construction, sustainability, analysis, safety, environmental planning available with the majority, 135, based in Central and Southern Scotland
  • These green jobs will be at the forefront of the transformation of the electricity network in the region and vital to delivering Net Zero

SP Energy Networks has launched its largest recruitment drive this century with 152 green jobs on offer over the next four months. The news was announced this morning as First Minister Nicola Sturgeon visited SP Energy Networks’ training centre, Dealain House, to announce the New Green Jobs Workforce Academy.

The 152 green jobs will be at the forefront of work to enhance the electricity network to enable the rapid uptake of renewables and low carbon technologies needed to help Scotland and the wider UK reach its Net Zero target.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said:“To help tackle climate change Scotland is already investing in green skills and attracting new green job opportunities. It is great to see ScottishPower creating 135 new green jobs in Scotland and I would encourage other employers to follow their lead.

“The Academy’s career advisors stand ready to support individuals interested in these jobs access the right training to help their career progress.

“Looking ahead to COP26 in Glasgow in November, Scotland can be proud that our climate change ambitions, backed by investment in creating a highly skilled green workforce, will be showcased on an international stage.”

In the year when Glasgow hosts the UN’s climate change summit, COP26, the Glasgow headquartered company is pleased to be able to offer such a diverse range of green opportunities.

Frank Mitchell, CEO of SP Energy Networks, explains more: “With less than 100 days to go to COP26 in Glasgow, we’re bringing truly green jobs to Scotland to support the country with its ambitions to be Net Zero by 2045.

“These roles offer a variety of career opportunities in a company that is committed to Net Zero and is investing millions of pounds every single day to help bring about a cleaner, greener future.”

The majority of roles will be based in Central and Southern Scotland where SP Energy Networks is responsible for the operation and maintenance of over 4,000km of cables and lines that make up the transmission network. This network connects generation infrastructure like windfarms into the electricity system and transports that electricity onto towns and cities.

Over the next five years, SP Energy Networks is investing £2 billion in its transmission network to support the increase in renewable energy needed to meet Scotland’s climate change targets and to ensure a resilient and reliant network fit for the future as electricity demand grows.

To help deliver this investment, SP Energy Networks is recruiting 126 candidates who will work across a number of major projects to build a transmission network fit for Net Zero.

This increases the staff employed in SP Energy Networks Transmission business by over 25% and is on top of the 135 apprentices and graduates across SP Energy Networks who started this year.

An additional 26 positions will be recruited into SP Energy Networks Distribution business to accelerate projects that support Net Zero ambitions.

These posts offer long-term, skilled roles across varying disciplines including engineering, project management, construction, environmental planning and sustainability. 

Frank adds: “We currently directly employ around 2,700 staff and over the next 12 months we are embarking on our largest recruitment drive in over 20 years. This demonstrates the scale of work we’re about to begin, investing billions in our network to help the UK reach its climate change targets. 

“In our transmission business alone, we’re investing £2bn out to 2026 and we’re only just beginning. We also have very ambitious plans for our distribution businesses, and if our plans are agreed with Ofgem, we will be expanding these new 152 roles considerably.

“The opportunities we have range from Planning Engineers to Programme Analysts to Project Managers and offer long-term, green jobs that will be right at the heart of the transition to Net Zero through a green economic recovery.

“We’re about to start work on a number of major projects critical to helping Scotland achieve its climate ambitions and you could be part of it. I would encourage anyone with an interest to come forward and see if a career with SP Energy Networks is for you.”

Further information on the roles available can be found here: 

https://www.scottishpower.com/pages/energy_networks_opportunities.aspx

SP Energy Networks £1.58 billion plan for Scotland unveiled

  • SP Energy Networks sets out plans to invest £1.58 billion in Central and Southern Scotland between 2023 and 2028
  • Investment is critical to the UK hitting its Net Zero targets, with the UK set to see circa 30 million EVs hit the streets and 22 million heat pumps installed in homes by 2050.
  • Critical upgrades will be required to connect an additional 3GW of renewable generation as Scotland revolutionises transport and heating infrastructure at speed.
  • Proposals include £30m Net Zero Fund to support innovative, low carbon community projects across SP Energy Network’s licence areas.

SP Energy Networks has today launched its draft RIIO-ED2 Business Plan, detailing the £3.2 billion of investment required to ready the UK for an electric future, of which £1.58bn would be in Central and Southern Scotland’s distribution network.

Running from 2023 to 2028, the draft plan sets out SP Energy Networks’ vision for a network that can meet the challenge of Net Zero across 105,000km of network and 30,000 substations and will benefit millions of customers cross Scotland, England, and Wales.

The work will kick-start the much-needed growth in low carbon technologies required to reach the Scotland’s climate ambitions. Across Central and Southern Scotland, the investment would enable the connection of over 370,000 electric vehicles, 210,000 domestic heat pumps and an additional 3GW of low carbon electricity generation connected during the five-year period.

To help deliver this mammoth task, SP Energy Networks plans to recruit more than 1,100 green jobs across its licence areas (Central and Southern Scotland and Merseyside, Cheshire, North & Mid-Wales and North Shropshire), with thousands more indirect jobs supported over the five years.

Frank Mitchell, CEO of SP Energy Networks, said: “The scale of the task at hand cannot be underestimated. If the Scotland is to hit its Net Zero targets, we must deliver one of the largest, fastest upgrades of our critical infrastructure this country has ever seen.

“We deliver an essential public service – keeping the electricity flowing to 6 million people across 3.5 million homes and businesses. This is an important and privileged role and it’s one we never take for granted, but it is so much more than just ‘keeping the lights on’. This investment is vital and with five months to go until COP26, launching this plan shows our commitment to getting the job done for our communities across the Scotland.

“In RIIO-ED2, we need to respond to our customers’ changing needs as we move towards Net Zero. We’ve set out our plans to continue delivering exceptional service, supporting our most vulnerable customers, and taking on a more proactive role in our communities.

“Our customers already rate us at over 9 out of 10 for satisfaction and we plan on going even further. We will be a partner that supports their journey to Net Zero, bridging the gap from ambition to action to make sure that we leave no-one behind in the energy transition.”

At the heart of SP Energy Networks planned investment across its licence area is:

  • developing a network that’s ready for Net Zero by continuing to adapt the world-class network to be more resilient and more reliable, using innovative, flexible, and efficient solutions. Innovation and efficiency embedded in the plan will save £173m for customers.
  • being the trusted partner for customers, communities, and stakeholders by engaging more with customers and communities, supporting them by offering enhanced and tailored services, and going further for vulnerable customers. A proposed £30 million Distribution Net Zero fund will support innovative, low-carbon project proposals to enable communities to realise their ambitions, and £62.5 million of social benefits will be delivered through the provision of support services to more customers than ever before.
  • readying the business for a digital and sustainable future by embedding new digital approaches, innovation, and process redesign to save customers more than £60 million and by putting sustainability first in order to reduce our carbon footprint by 38% by 2028.  

Frank Mitchell explains: “When the current infrastructure was built, homes used gas or solid fuel for heating with only twenty appliances running on electricity – compared to more than fifty now.

“Over the next two decades, we expect to see that demand rise significantly, as millions more electric vehicles and heating systems come online.

“Our network has served us well over the last fifty years. Now is the time to invest so it stands ready to continue that service in a truly decarbonised future.”

SP Energy Networks has engaged with over 15,000 customers and stakeholders on the Business Plan and will continue to engage and consult ahead of the submission of the final plan in December 2021.