Groundworks and civil engineering company Advance Construction Scotland is spinning out its multi-utility division to create the new company, joining with the strategic expertise and live cabling capabilities of Powertek Utilities in the jointly-owned venture.

Advance Powertek Utilities Ltd has been formed to maximise the growth potential of both companies, combining the skills, expertise and experience of their teams into one business – with a fresh focus on the renewables sector.

Advance Construction’s current director of strategic operations, Lynsey Breen, one of Scotland’s few female engineering leaders, will move into the position of managing director, with Powertek founder Steve Higgins taking up the post of chief executive.

Their strategic focus will be on rapid growth through public, private and commercial gas, electric and water infrastructure contracts in the UK. There will also be a drive to develop capabilities and lead in renewable technologies - offshore, onshore wind and solar power - aligned with Scottish Government targets and modern market trends.

Additional specialisms will include ownership of IDNO licenses to operate networks, maintenance contracts for network operators, vehicle charging and battery storage.

A highly skilled workforce of 30 will be based at the company’s new headquarters in Livingston, with the majority coming into the company by TUPE transfer from Advance Construction Scotland.

Commenting on the launch of the new business, Lynsey Breen said: ‘The new Advance Powertek Utilities business is an exciting development for both Advance Construction and Powertek. By unifying our teams, we create a company that has all the requisite skills and experience to become a major new force in the UK utilities sector.

“Having been fortunate enough to have Advance Construction founder Seamus Shields as a mentor, I have seen the power that customer service excellence, investment in people, and a company culture focused on innovation brings to business. Both Steve and I will bring these qualities to our dynamic growth plans in the months ahead.

“As well as core gas, electric and water contracts, we are ambitious to be at the forefront of the renewables revolution, as demand for more sustainable energy increases from consumers and government.”

Steve Higgins added: “Despite the uncertain economic climate, there are positive signs and confidence within the construction sector and we believe there is huge potential for our new business to grow in Scotland and across the UK.

“The specialist skills and experience of our team are in high demand for a wide range of multi-utility projects, and collectively we have an impressive track record of successful delivery for our customers at the very highest level.

“The Scottish Government has some of the most ambitious targets for a decarbonised energy system in the world, and we are dedicated to developing market-leading capabilities within our team to deliver for renewable energy utilities projects in line with these targets.”