HS2 Ltd has begun the search for specialist contractors to deliver the high voltage power supply systems that will transfer electricity to the UK's new high speed rail link.

Following on from the government’s green light for the start of construction, the winner of the contract – worth an estimated £523m - will be responsible for the design as well as manufacture, supply, installation, testing, commissioning and maintenance of the HV power supply systems.

Approximately 50 traction sub-stations will be built alongside the line between London and Crewe in order to deliver power from the National Grid to the trains. The contractor will also deliver a dedicated HV non-traction power network that will provide power to stations, shafts, portals, depots and railway systems along the route.

David Poole, HS2 Ltd’s procurement and commercial director, said: “The high voltage power supply is a vital part of the HS2 project and the successful bidder will play a crucial role in keeping our network running safely and reliably. I look forward to the HS2 team working with the suppliers who come forward and together ensuring that we deliver best quality and value for the project.”

The HV Power Systems contract will be a single stage procurement, with the successful bidder delivering two separate contracts covering Design & Build and Maintenance services within Phase One and Phase 2a - from London to Crewe, where HS2 services will join the existing west coast main line. 

The traction power sub-stations are located at multidisciplinary Railway Systems Compounds which are situated in the open route section of the line. The contractor will assume the role of Principal Contractor within these compounds. The successful bidder will be expected to work closely with HS2’s other rail systems suppliers to ensure integration of its design and throughout construction, testing and commissioning.

A shortlist is expected to be announced next year, with contract award in 2022.