London-listed international infrastructure group Balfour Beatty (LON: BBY) announced Friday that it has secured a significant £363 million contract from National Grid to upgrade the electricity network in East Anglia.
The company explained that the Bramford to Twinstead Reinforcement project will involve replacing the existing high-voltage overhead lines with a new 400 kilovolt line stretching over 18 kilometers.
Balfour Beatty is also set to install 11 kilometers of underground cable through the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Stour Valley.
The project is seen as crucial for ensuring the reliability and security of the electricity supply in the region, particularly as the UK continues to transition towards green energy.
“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,” said Balfour Beatty.
Leo Quinn, the company's chief executive, commented: “This award demonstrates the momentum we are capturing in the energy security and transition market. As the largest power transmission provider in the UK, we have a long and proud history of working with National Grid.
“This latest award will once again enable our expert teams to deploy their proven capability to successfully deliver overhead lines and underground cabling works in complex and challenging landscapes.”
Construction is expected to begin in the first half of 2025 and conclude in 2028. At its peak, the project will employ over 200 people, including 10 apprentices and graduates, reflecting Balfour Beatty's commitment to developing young talent.
