National Grid appoints eight contractors to £640m power cable framework

National Grid has named eight contractors to a new framework worth up to £640 million, supporting the delivery of underground electricity cable projects across England and Wales.

The framework will cover the installation of 66kV and 132kV cable circuits, alongside associated civil engineering works, testing and commissioning, across both National Grid's transmission and electricity distribution networks.

Initially awarded for 12 months, with the option of a further one-year extension, the agreement will support projects across the East Midlands, West Midlands, South West and South Wales.

The contractors appointed to the framework are:

• Balfour Beatty Utility Solutions

• OCU Services

• Excalon

• A Thomas Plant Hire

• United Infrastructure Power T&D

• Circet (UK)

• M&A Doocey Civil Engineering

• Network Plus Services

Each company has secured a place on an £80 million share of the framework, creating a combined programme with a potential value of £640 million.

The framework has been established to streamline the delivery of cable infrastructure as National Grid continues to invest in reinforcing the UK's electricity network to support increasing demand, grid resilience and the transition to a low-carbon energy system.

Alongside cable installation works, contractors will also undertake earthworks, telecommunications ducting, cable jointing, testing and commissioning, with the framework available to National Grid's transmission, distribution and wider ventures businesses.