Arup secures major electricity transmission network role

Over the next decade, SSEN Transmission will upgrade the transmission network in the North of Scotland to enable the connection of up to 30GW of new renewable energy, to support the delivery of the UK Government’s renewable energy targets.

The transmission system in the UK is facing significant change. Electricity demand continues to grow, with the broader societal drive towards decarbonisation encouraging more clean power to be generated. Delivering on the change needed requires thorough and ongoing analysis of several key aspects of the transmission network.

The framework agreement between Arup and SSEN Transmission will provide specialist support for comprehensive power system studies, encompassing steady state, dynamic, and electromagnetic transient studies (EMT), and advanced and complex power system modelling including energy market modelling and probabilistic analysis.

Throughout duration of the framework, Arup will also work with SSEN Distribution to deliver power system modelling that informs connection of new distributed generation and demand, provides solutions for future network reinforcement with increasing decarbonised demand, and supports investment planning.

Arup secured seven lots, spanning Transmission, Distribution, Dynamic Analysis, Probabilistic Studies, EMT, Flexible Power Systems, and De-risking Power Electronics, and will collaborate closely with SSEN Transmission to deliver resilient, future-ready grid infrastructure aligned with the UK’s clean power ambitions.

This comprehensive programme addresses uncertainties from multiple generation and demand scenarios through advanced power system modelling and probabilistic analysis, ensuring reliability and performance. The modelling also includes planning and designing the grid for new connections at transmission and distribution, and for the integration of Accelerated Strategic Transmission Investment (ASTI) initiative.

As part of ASTI, SSEN Transmission are planning to deliver eleven projects as part of its £22bn+ electricity transmission investment programme. These projects include the reinforcement and upgrading of existing infrastructure, as well as the construction and installation of new substations, overhead lines and subsea cables, right across the north of Scotland.

The power system analysis work that will be undertaken through this framework will also support ongoing operational reliability, while flexible power system modelling will enable adaptation to evolving energy demands. These measures collectively ensure robust grid performance by understanding network behaviour and mitigating operability risks. 

Arup brings deep expertise in power system studies, energy market modelling, investment planning, and digital innovation, enabling smarter, faster, planning, design, and implementation – fully aligned with SSEN Transmission’s ambition.

Charlotte Higgins, associate director – electricity networks, at Arup, said: “This appointment reflects our commitment to electricity system transformation as a key enabler of decarbonisation while also enhancing resilience, driving digital innovation, and delivering sustainable infrastructure across the energy sector.

“We are proud to be supporting SSEN Transmission in delivering an electricity system that is not only reliable and secure but also ready to meet the challenges of the UK’s net zero future.”