Linxon selected to deliver design and long-lead equipment procurement works for Western Isles AC substation for SSEN Transmission in the UK
Linxon has been appointed to perform detailed design activities and procure long-lead equipment for the 400/132 kV SF₆free EconiQ® Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS) substations and associated systems for the Western Isles project in Scotland.
The Western Isles development will connect renewable generation to the Main Interconnected Transmission System (MITS) and will enable the transfer of 1.8 GW via the new HVDC bipole link being delivered by Hitachi Energy for SSEN Transmission in the United Kingdom. This infrastructure is a critical element in strengthening GB’s transmission network and enabling future clean energy capacity.
In December 2023, Linxon established a long-term partnership with SSEN Transmission through the Pathway to Net Zero Framework Agreement. Under this agreement, Linxon will support the design, engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning of high-voltage and extra high-voltage GIS and AIS substations across Scotland, ensuring alignment with SSEN Transmission’s future investment plans and network expansion requirements.
SSEN Transmission is implementing a delivery partner model that promotes long-term collaboration with the supply chain to support efficient, cost-effective project delivery for consumers across Great Britain. This approach enables early contractor involvement, greater cost certainty, performance benchmarking, and shared value creation through synergy reviews—supporting the wider Pathway to 2030 ambitions.
To support this initiative, the project will integrate Hitachi Energy’s SF6-free EconiQ portfolio, designed to deliver superior environmental performance compared to conventional solutions. EconiQ high-voltage products eliminate SF6 and are proven to be reliable and scalable with the lowest carbon footprint on the market. Built to be future-proof, EconiQ solutions remain compatible with future regulations and rising energy system requirements.
“This project represents an important milestone in Linxon’s growth strategy within Scotland. We are developing collaborative working relationships following the successful completion of the first phase of Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) Design. Our team is committed to close cooperation with all stakeholders to accelerate the delivery of this vital infrastructure for the Western Isles. The project is anticipated to deliver substantial benefits both locally and nationally, support the achievement of 2030 clean energy goals, and drive progress toward net zero emissions. Linxon remains dedicated to partnering with our client to achieve our Net Zero ambitions,” stated Stefan Reisacher, CEO of Linxon.
About Linxon:
Linxon is a global leader in Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) solutions for electrical substations and infrastructure projects. We develop and deliver turnkey infrastructure solutions that power progress, drive growth and benefit communities, clients, and the environment through sustainable engineering excellence. www.linxon.com
About SSEN Transmission:
Headquartered in Perth - with offices in Aberdeen, Inverness and Glasgow - SSEN Transmission is responsible for the electricity transmission network in the north of Scotland, investing in and maintaining the high voltage 132kV, 220kV, 275kV and 400kV electricity transmission network.
SSEN Transmission’s strategic objective is to enable the transition to a low carbon economy, helping to secure the country's clean power and energy security ambitions. It does this by building the electricity transmission network infrastructure required to connect and transport renewable electricity in the north of Scotland to the towns, villages and cities where it's needed, as it delivers a network for net zero emissions.
SSEN Transmission is owned 75% by SSE plc and 25% by Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board (Ontario Teachers’).
Learn more about SSEN Transmission by visiting www.ssen-transmission.co.uk, X, LinkedIn or Instagram.
Photos:
(Sandy McTaggart SSEN, Stefan Reisacher, Linxon), Left to right in background – Mark Smith, SSEN, Yousef Chamaneh- Linxon, John Scott- SSEN, Angel Jose Guijarro- Linxon, Mostafa Elhenawy- Linxon)
For more information, please contact:
Kristina Holmström Matses
Head of Communications
media.enquiries@linxon.com
Yousef Chamaneh
Country Manager Linxon UK
+44 7514 315380
