Scotland's Railway Electrification Framework
Framework Description
Network Rail Infrastructure Limited is procuring Scotland's Railway Electrification Framework, an NR30 framework commission agreement with a single contractor. It covers overhead line electrification to the UK Master Series, traction power, power and distribution, ancillaries and associated design. The agreement is nil value, but works are estimated at around £300m, with total capacity of £450m for emerging needs. It is expected to start on 1 March 2027 and run to 29 February 2032, with a possible extension to 28 February 2035.
Context & Use Case
Network Rail will use the framework to develop, deliver and bring into service electrification schemes on Scotland's Railway, supporting decarbonisation of the network. Because there is one contractor, schemes are placed with that partner through commissions under the NR30 agreement rather than competed between several suppliers. Specialist firms that cannot lead a bid of this size may want to approach bidding contractors about supply chain roles.
Scope of Services
Overhead line electrification (UK Master Series) Traction power Power and distribution Ancillaries Associated design works
Lots
See framework link
Who Can Apply
Suits principal contractors with a track record in overhead line electrification and traction power on Network Rail infrastructure, and the capacity to deliver around £300m of works. With only one place, competition will be intense. Network Rail published the tender notice on 10 April 2026, so this procurement is the only route onto the framework for its term.
Buyer Benefits
One contractor responsible for design, overhead lines, power and ancillaries gives Network Rail continuity across a multi-year programme, with consistent standards and a team that learns the Scottish network. The £450m capacity lets it add emerging schemes without a fresh procurement, and a term that could reach 2035 supports workforce and plant planning on both sides.
Next Steps
Read the tender notice published on Find a Tender on 10 April 2026 for the procedure and deadlines, and access the documents through Network Rail's Bravo e-sourcing portal. Build evidence of electrification schemes taken through to entry into service, overhead line design capability and power and distribution experience. Settle joint venture or key subcontractor arrangements early, because a single-award contest leaves no room for gaps.
How Athena Can Help
A single-supplier award worth an estimated £300m is won or lost on detail. Athena would build win themes with our F.V.D. model, score your likely position against rival contractors and stress-test the commercial model so your pricing holds across a long NR30 term. Our bid writing and management covers the full submission.
Earlier on, our bid for the bid planning helps settle teaming and resourcing. For firms aiming at supply chain roles instead, we can find other rail frameworks to join.
