The partnership will run for an initial five years, with the option to extend up to 10 years. It will enable the network operator to deliver the biggest rewiring of the GB electricity grid since its inception, to meet increasing demand and unlock growth.

With electricity demand forecast to double by 2050, Britain’s grid needs a major upgrade to transport power around the country and in September ScottishPower confirmed it will double investment in the UK to 2028 to £24bn, with two thirds focused on electricity networks.

Our successful bid has secured positions on two bodies of work; new transmission overhead line with up to £3bn of works available to eight strategic partners, and substation upgrade works with £2.4bn of work available to 15 strategic partners.

The strategic Partnership will deliver on green jobs and talent development, a positive impact on communities and a safe working environment.

ScottishPower, estimates it will create 1,000 new jobs and deliver tens of thousands more in the supply chain.

Nicola Connelly, CEO of SP Energy Networks, said: “We’re delivering the biggest overhaul of the electricity grid ever seen to unlock growth and free up network capacity for new homes, businesses and clean energy projects.

“These strategic partnerships will give suppliers the confidence to invest in themselves, growing their workforce, opening new offices across the country and creating even greater opportunities for the UK.”

Simon Smith, Managing Director, Morgan Sindall Infrastructure said: “We are delighted to be a strategic partner to Scottish Power Energy Network’s programme to upgrade its energy grid and enhance local communities.

“The challenge to upgrade the electricity network to support future demand is major to the resilience of the network. Working collaboratively across partnerships will be a key driver in the success of developing a robust network for the future.”