The partnership will see BT deliver a wide range of robust connectivity solutions to ScottishPower, by securely connecting their hard-to-reach rural green energy sites.

The contract, which will provide integrated and bespoke telecommunications services to approximately 100 locations across the UK, France, and Germany, will enable ScottishPower to future-proof its IT network. This will help them to increase their capacity to provide clean, green energy to facilitate the UK’s progress to net zero.

BT’s connectivity will aid ScottishPower’s operational technology on its windfarms allowing controllers to monitor areas like turbine temperature, operating efficiency and the amount of electricity being produced by the site, helping manage the wind farm and the assets on it more efficiently. The company’s ambitious growth plans include expansion of its existing onshore wind portfolio, investment in new, large-scale solar projects and innovative battery storage systems. This strategic partnership between BT and ScottishPower will facilitate that growth in capacity.

BT Group buys 100% of its energy from renewable resources including Scottish wind farms. It also plans to accelerate responsible, inclusive and sustainable growth over the next decade as part of its manifesto to achieve net zero carbon emissions from its operations by 2030.

Allan Ferguson, UK director of infrastructure, operations and communications at ScottishPower, said: “ScottishPower is at the forefront of the delivery of the UK’s Net Zero targets and the transition to a more sustainable future.

“As we grow our renewable energy generation, investing in more windfarms, battery storage and green hydrogen production facilities, IT needs to ensure it supports the business growth and BT is helping us achieve that by helping to future-proof the IT network. I look forward to working with BT in delivering this strategic award.”

Alan Lees, director for BT’s enterprise business in Scotland, said: “As a critical enabler and as one of the largest employers in Scotland, BT offers unparalleled networks for people, businesses and public services here.

“We understand critical national services and like ScottishPower, we also want to power Scotland’s green economic growth. We are therefore delighted that ScottishPower has trusted and awarded us with this multi-million-pound contract as the provider of choice to run its national infrastructure.

“At BT, we pride ourselves on offering unrivalled, robust and reliable network solutions for our customers including ubiquitous connectivity in hard to reach rural sites. We look forward to providing integrated solutions to meet the needs of ScottishPower and its customers as we work together to help to support the growth of renewable energy.”