National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) has selected engineering led construction firm Burns & McDonnell to be part of its new RIIO T2 EPC construction Framework for Substations. 

The framework, which will last a minimum of five years, will support National Grid’s investment in the UK’s electricity transmission infrastructure as part of the UK’s transition to Net Zero. This investment will ensure the grid is prepared for greater adoption of electrical vehicles and the connection of more renewable energy sources, including offshore wind, as part of the government’s Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution. The framework includes a tranche of capital projects to be delivered over the next few years and will see new projects added as more renewables come online across the UK and as asset upgrades need to be completed. 

The contract with NGET continues Burns & McDonnell’s rapid growth in the UK. The business, which has been operating in the US for over 120 years, opened its first European office in Birmingham in 2017 and has since more than tripled in size. It established a new business practice focusing on Mission Critical projects in 2020 and will soon be opening a second office. 

Burns & McDonnell already works extensively with National Grid in the United States, where the engineering firm is headquartered. This new contract cements that relationship here in the UK and makes Burns & McDonnell a true global partner to National Grid.

Jonathan Chapman, UK Managing Director, Burns & McDonnell, said:

“Being selected from a strong field for this major National Grid substation framework is a big milestone for Burns & McDonnell and is testament to the hard work and experience of our fantastic team.

“This is a pivotal moment for the UK’s energy sector as we transition to Net Zero. I’m pleased that Burns & McDonnell will have the opportunity to play a leading role alongside National Grid in developing the resilient electrical infrastructure needed to underpin that transition.”