Ipsum Group secures overhead line (OHL) framework with Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution

Ipsum has been awarded a new five-year framework contract with Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution (SHEPD) to deliver overhead line (OHL) services across its 33kV distribution network, with an option to extend for a further three years. 

The contract covers Lot 1, Argyll and West, including areas such as Arran, Oban, Lochgilphead, Islay and surrounding regions, and marks a significant development in Ipsum’s continued expansion within the UK electricity distribution sector and its growing relationship with SSE. 

The award sits within a period of sustained investment across UK electricity distribution networks, as DNOs progress reinforcement and maintenance programmes under the RIIO-ED2 price control period. This includes ongoing programmes to improve network resilience, maintain ageing overhead line infrastructure, and support reliable electricity supply in rural and weather-exposed areas. 

Under the framework, Ipsum will deliver the full lifecycle of OHL services up to 33kV, including construction, maintenance, refurbishment and dismantlement of wood pole infrastructure across LV, 11kV and 33kV networks. In addition, we will be key deliver partners for some major 66kV Network builds across the region.

The scope also includes associated enabling works such as underground cable installation, jointing, traffic management, excavation and reinstatement. In addition, Ipsum will provide emergency response capability to support network resilience during severe weather events, including rapid mobilisation of specialist resources to restore critical infrastructure safely and efficiently. 

This award builds on Ipsum’s existing OHL South (SEPD) contract and further strengthens its position within SSE’s electricity distribution portfolio, establishing SHEPD as a key framework client for the business. 

Lee Maxwell, Managing Director of Power at Ipsum said: “This framework award with Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution is another important milestone in the continued development of our Power division and further strengthens our relationship with SSE. It builds on the success of our OHL South contract and reflects the capability, commitment and consistency of delivery demonstrated by our teams across the electricity distribution network.  

“We look forward to working closely with SHEPD to deliver safe, efficient and high-quality overhead line services across the Argyll and West region, supporting the ongoing maintenance and resilience of their network.” 

Nigel Geraghty, National OHL Director at Ipsum, said: “This is a significant award for our Overhead Line business and further demonstrates the strength of our operational capability and delivery model. Expanding our framework portfolio within the SSE network is an important step for Ipsum and reflects the trust placed in our teams to deliver critical infrastructure works in challenging environments. Our teams are experienced in delivering overhead line works across remote and weather-affected regions, and we are well positioned to support SHEPD in maintaining and improving network reliability across Argyll and the West of Scotland.” 

The agreement further strengthens Ipsum’s position within the UK electricity distribution sector, building on its growing portfolio of overhead line frameworks and reinforcing its ability to support essential network maintenance, resilience and upgrade programmes across both urban and rural environments. 

Complementing its organic growth, Ipsum continues to invest in its capabilities across the power sector to support increasing demand for specialist overhead line services and wider electricity network infrastructure works.