SP Energy Networks’ Mid Galloway investment brings local employment opportunities to the local community.
We’re investing £10 million to upgrade the electricity network in Mid Galloway. The investment, which is already well under way, is securing supplies to homes and businesses in the area, in turn improving storm resilience.
As a result of the works in the area, the demand for local linesmen has increased. SP Energy Networks has teamed up with Dumfries and Galloway College offering places to semi-skilled tradesmen with a view to up-skilling to linesmen. 39 students have already completed their course with a further 36 places available over the next two years. On successful completion of the course, 20 of the trainees will be offered permanent employment with Dumfries & Galloway Council.
The SP Energy Networks team recently met with members from the Mid-Galloway community, including some key council representatives, to share with them their progress. Since work began, the community has seen the number of faults in their area reduce by 44% and is delighted with the performance development so far. The community is also pleased at the local employment opportunities, given the employment difficulties rural communities tend to have.
The investment in the area will mean fewer and shorter interruptions during extreme weather events. Our industry-leading approach to storm resilience will ensure that overhead lines are built with specifications matched to the expected weather conditions.