National Grid has contracted Jacobs Engineering Group to upgrade and develop the electricity transmission network for the South West region of England and Wales as part of its 2.5 billion British pounds (US$5 billion) program over the next five years.

Jacobs will work alongside consortia partners Morrison Utility Services and Mitsubishi Electric Europe BV and are one of six consortia selected by National Grid to undertake the work across England and Wales. Collectively, this is the largest ever Alliance contract for National Grid and represents a significant part of its planned investment to maintain safe and secure energy supplies to the UK.

These collaborative contracts will connect new infrastructure, such as wind farms and other new generation plants, and replace existing assets to ensure continued safe and reliable operations.

National Grid Executive Director for Transmission Nick Winser said, "We welcome the increasing diversity of energy sources across the UK. This significant investment demonstrates National Grid's commitment to maintaining a robust transmission network. It will also help secure clean, affordable energy for the long term."