AECOM selected for multi-billion-dollar Scottish water infrastructure overhaul

AECOM (NYSE:ACM) has been named a preferred bidder for Scottish Water’s new Enterprise Alliance, a massive infrastructure program aimed at modernizing water and wastewater systems across Scotland.

The venture, which could span up to 13 years, represents the highest-value investment ever launched by the publicly owned utility, with a total estimated value of up to £9 billion ($11.4 billion).

The Dallas-based engineering firm will serve as one of two Primary Designers for the program, which is scheduled to run from 2027 to 2033.

The agreement includes an option to extend for an additional six years, potentially stretching the partnership to 2039.

Under the new "enterprise-style" delivery model, AECOM will be responsible for end-to-end design across the capital program, integrating its engineering-led AI capabilities to increase efficiency and certainty in delivery.

"This innovative model sets a new benchmark for the industry, fostering collaboration and bringing additional value through our deep technical expertise," said Richard Whitehead, Chief Executive of AECOM’s Europe and India region.

The Enterprise Alliance is designed to handle approximately one-third of Scottish Water’s SR27 investment period, focusing on aging infrastructure, environmental resilience, and the utility’s goal of surpassing net-zero emissions.

AECOM joins a select group of preferred bidders that includes Stantec as the second Primary Designer, alongside several asset delivery partners such as M Group Water and Mott MacDonald Bentley.

Contracted activities are expected to begin in 2026, with the full procurement process slated for completion by March 2026.