4.8MW Substation design and installation

What this is

The European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) Ltd seeks a contractor to design, procure, install and commission a 4.8 MW onshore tidal generation substation on the island of Eday, Orkney. Works include site layout design, civil and electrical design, construction of the substation building, supply and installation of 33kV and 11kV switchgear, transformer and earthing systems, and full commissioning. The estimated contract value is £1,565,000.

Key points

• Specialist high-voltage substation works (33kV/11kV) on a remote island — logistics and programme planning critical to evaluation
• Deadline extended to 03/07/2026; SEPA flood risk map for proposed site added 16/06/2026
• Estimated value £1,565,000; financial due diligence (2-year accounts) required prior to contract signing

Who can bid

Open procedure. Financial due diligence prior to contract signing (2 years accounts). Technical and professional ability as per ITT. Contractor to design, procure, install and commission 4.8MW substation at Eday, Orkney.

How it is scored

Quality 70% · Price 30% 70% quality: Experience of contractor (20%), Proposed methodology/technical offering (30%), Availability/proposed schedule (20%). 30% cost/value for money.

How to submit

Submit electronically via PCS Postbox (www.publiccontractsscotland.gov.uk). Documents include ITT, site location plan, Single Line Diagram, EMEC sample Works Contract, and SEPA flood risk map. Deadline: 03/07/2026 at 12:00. Tender must remain valid 3 months.

Clarifications

Questions via PCS Q&A. Deadline: 03/07/2026 at 12:00. Tenders opened same day in Stromness, Orkney.

Contract period

Start: 03/08/2026. End: 31/03/2028 (approx. 20 months). No renewal. Deadline extended from 26/06/2026 to 03/07/2026 (one extra week).

Classification

CPV 45232220 — Substation construction work 71323100 — Electrical power systems design services45232221 — Transformer substation ScotlandHighlands and IslandsOrkney