SSEN Transmission is continuing construction work essential for medium term supply, including meeting regulatory obligations until the end of next winter, as it adapts to new coronavirus lockdown and social distancing requirements.
The guidance from Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Transmission, the network operator in the north of Scotland, means projects due for connection to the grid within the period may still be able to do so.
The company said it was collaborating with both UK and Scottish governments and regulator Ofgem on critical work to ensure a safe and reliable electricity supply.
It added that the Scottish government’s definition of where work can continue include elements of Critical National Infrastructure.
A spokesperson said: “In the absence of specific guidance and with companies understandably expected to use their judgement on what is critical, we are currently deeming critical activity to include work that is essential to the safe and reliable supply of electricity in the medium term, which includes meeting our regulatory obligations until the end of the coming winter.
“In conducting this critical work, there will be the need to be active on certain construction sites.
“We will continue to engage constructively with all relevant authorities, adapting our advice in line with what is clearly an evolving situation.
“We are mindful of the current environment and our numbers and activities are much reduced as a consequence of this.
“For those based at site, increased hygiene and social distancing measures are being adhered to as per Scottish government guidelines.”
She said all staff that could were now working from home and the company was regularly reviewing the position in light of guidance and would continue to keep stakeholders informed.
SSEN added that it has taken steps to segregate frontline operational teams and maintain workforce resilience.
“This includes splitting the physical location of our teams, to ensure we can maintain operations in the event of a localised outbreak or a closure of a site.”