How We’re Driving Progress Through Digital Innovation

S S E N Transmission C I O, James McLean smiling and sitting in front of a white background wearing a checked red, blue, and grey shirt.

A blog by SSEN Transmission’s Chief Information Officer, James McLean 

At SSEN Transmission, digitalisation continues to play a vital role in how we’re evolving as a business - it’s a key part of how we’re preparing our electricity network to meet the demands being asked of it today.  
 
As we deliver one of the most ambitious investment programmes the country has ever seen, digital tools, IT systems and data are playing a huge part in how we plan, operate and grow our network to ensure people have the energy they need, not only now but also into the future.  
 
With our current five-year delivery phase nearing completion, our latest Digitalisation Action Plan sets out the remarkable progress we’ve made, and how we’re laying strong digital foundations for the years ahead. 
 
Over the past year, we’ve focused on putting the right tools and systems in place to improve how we work - both internally and for our customers and stakeholders. From new planning software and a fully embedded Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform to the rollout of our Integrated Project Management (IPM) suite, we’re building a more efficient, connected, and responsive business. 

Our digital improvements are already making a difference - accelerating connection requests, streamlining project delivery, and giving our teams greater access to reliable, real-time data. They’re also helping us shift our culture around how data is managed and used across the business. 

We’re also making data more accessible, more valuable, and ultimately, more empowering - so that our people have the insight and information they need to make faster, better decisions for wider society.  

Looking ahead, our focus will turn to our next five-year delivery phase (RIIO-T3) where digital will continue to play a pivotal role. We’ll be placing greater emphasis on asset management, network growth, and becoming an even more data-driven organisation.  
 
As we grow, we’re transforming our ways of working and embedding a data-driven culture to achieve our digital aspirations and inspire long-term growth within Transmission. 
 
Historically, energy network businesses haven’t been seen as digital frontrunners/pioneers, but I’m pleased to say that’s no longer the case. We’re now leading the way, and our latest Digitalisation Action Plan is a fantastic example of the progress we’re making. A huge thank you to our expert teams and partners who are turning our digital ambitions into reality.