Reaching net zero will require major changes to the electricity system. Much of the public discussion focuses on generating more electricity from renewable sources, however, an equally important part of the transition is upgrading the electricity networks that transport power from where it is generated to where it is used. This is particularly important in Scotland and UK because renewable generation capacity is concentrated in the north, while most electricity demand is concentrated in the south. This mismatch creates structural pressure on existing networks. As the electricity network owner and operator SSEN is responsible for delivering upgrades to this network, putting it at the centre of the UK’s energy transition.
The overarching aim of this project is to work in collaboration with SSEN to understand the economy-wide impacts of the large-scale investment in electricity networks required to support the net zero transition. As electricity networks expand and are reinforced to accommodate renewable generation, electrification of heat and transport, and increased system resilience, these investments will have significant implications across sectors, regions, and households. This project seeks to provide robust, policy-relevant evidence on these impacts.

There are three key objectives:

• detailed analysis of the electricity network supply-chain and assess how supply chains respond to increased investment, identify capacity constraints, and explore opportunities for supply-chain optimisation that could enhance domestic economic benefits
• improve the representation of electricity networks within Scotland’s Input–Output tables, enabling a more accurate disaggregation of network activities and a stronger empirical basis for economy-wide modelling
• assess the distributional impacts of network investment using macroeconomic models such as Input Output and Computable General Equilibrium

Further information

Strathclyde Business School is committed to supporting a diverse and inclusive postgraduate research population. We make decisions on entry by assessing the whole person and not relying solely on academic achievements. On that basis, please ensure that your application (via your CV and covering letter) can evidence your resourcefulness, commitment and resilience as demonstrated by broader professional and life experiences. This evidence should be centred on your ability to undertake and complete a PhD and contribute to a positive PhD community.

If English isn't your first language, you'll need an IELTS score of 6.5 (or an equivalent test) with no individual element below 5.5.