Network Rail has unveiled a major £450m electrification framework aimed at accelerating the decarbonisation of Scotland’s railway network and providing long‑term delivery certainty for complex electrification programmes.
The framework will appoint a single contractor responsible for delivering overhead line electrification (OLE), traction power, distribution systems and associated design under a long‑term delivery model designed to improve efficiency, consistency and programme certainty.
Structured as a nil‑value NR30 Framework Commission Agreement, the arrangement has around £300m of works initially identified, with the total potential pipeline expected to rise to £450m as further schemes are developed and brought forward.
Long-term pipeline to 2035
The framework is scheduled to run from March 2027 to February 2032, with an optional three‑year extension that could see the agreement continue through to 2035. This extended horizon is intended to support skills retention, investment in capability and improved delivery performance across Scotland’s rolling electrification programme.
Works covered by the framework will span core electrification packages, including:
- OLE systems based on UK Master Series standards
- Traction power upgrades
- Ancillary infrastructure required to bring routes safely into operational service
The appointed contractor will be expected to support schemes from development and detailed design, through construction and entry into service, and ultimately final handback.
Single-supplier model to streamline delivery
In a notable departure from multi‑supplier frameworks, Network Rail is opting for a single‑supplier model, enabling direct call‑off without further competition. The approach is designed to streamline delivery, reduce procurement friction and maintain technical and operational consistency across multiple electrification programmes.
Given the complexity and risk profile of large‑scale rail electrification, the contract will be awarded using a 60:40 quality‑price split under a competitive flexible procedure, placing greater emphasis on technical capability, delivery approach and experience.
Supporting Scotland’s decarbonisation agenda
The framework underpins Scotland’s long‑term strategy to decarbonise the railway, providing a stable commercial vehicle to deliver successive electrification schemes as funding and scope are confirmed.
Firms interested in bidding have until 14 May to submit requests to participate, with contract award targeted for January 2027.
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