NIE Networks has advertised a scaffolding framework with an estimated value of £4.8m, covering work on Northern Ireland’s electricity infrastructure.
The procurement is divided into two lots, each valued at an estimated £2.4m, for overhead line, substation and associated access requirements.
The notice published on Sell2Wales on 31 October sets out an initial four-year term, with options for NIE Networks to extend it by up to a further four years.
Two lots for electricity network work
Lot one covers distribution overhead lines, including scaffolding for the erection, maintenance and replacement of electricity poles. It also includes low-voltage wires and cables beneath the eaves of customer properties, alongside fault and emergency response work.
Lot two covers distribution and transmission substations and transmission overhead lines. Its scope includes access for work on substation equipment, buildings and apparatus, electricity poles and towers, and roadside protection schemes when overhead lines are raised or lowered. Fault and emergency work is also included.
Design and inspections included
The requirements extend from pre-site assessments and scaffold planning through to design, hire, delivery, erection, alterations, maintenance and dismantling.
Contractors will be required to provide task-specific risk assessments and method statements, together with the necessary designs, calculations, engineering assessments and drawings.
The scope also calls for inspections after erection and before first use, at intervals of no more than seven days, and after alterations, weather, impacts or other circumstances that could affect safety.
NIE Networks specifies competent personnel for design, erection, inspection and supervision, with supporting inspection records and certification.
Framework could run for eight years
The notice gives estimated initial contract dates of 29 December 2027 to 28 December 2031. Extension options could take the arrangement through to 28 December 2035.
The £4.8m figure is the estimated framework value, rather than a guaranteed amount of work or an awarded contract.
Both lots are to be assessed on a weighting of 70% price and 30% quality. Procurement documents and participation requirements are available through eSourcing NI under reference S1138 (2027).
