Aberdeen: Scotland’s Energy Innovation Hub
In a groundbreaking venture, the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), operated by the University of Strathclyde, will collaborate with ETZ Ltd to create Scotland’s first energy incubator start and scale-up hub in Aberdeen’s Energy Transition Zone. This exciting project, spearheaded by the Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC) alongside founding partners BP and Scottish Enterprise, aims to establish a state-of-the-art innovation ecosystem within a £6.5 million, 3,000 sqm facility.
Embracing Innovation and Meeting Energy Needs
The envisioned facility, which will serve as a focal point of the Innovation Campus, is part of Aberdeen’s ambitious plans to become the largest energy transition complex in Scotland. Located at Hareness Road in Altens Industrial Estate, the hub will provide flexible industrial and collaboration spaces to facilitate manufacturing, supply chain development, technology research and development, commercialization, and targeted business support for driving entrepreneurship, innovation, and growth. Subject to planning permission, the hub is expected to open its doors in late 2024.
Partnerships and Collaborations
As a delivery partner for the Energy Incubator and Scale-Up Hub (EISH), NMIS will offer early-stage and scaling companies engaged in innovative green energy technology solutions a comprehensive package of advice and support to accelerate their journey to market their products successfully. NMIS will establish an outreach center within EISH to establish a presence in the North East and occupy a significant workshop within the collaboration hub of the facility.
Driving Economic Growth and Employment Opportunities
The NZTC will also host TechX accelerator start-ups within the hub, providing them with the necessary support to expand their businesses and participate in an environment that encourages engagement and collaboration with peers, SMEs, and larger companies, all equally invested in accelerating the journey to achieve net zero emissions.
Funding and Support
To bring this visionary project to life, ETZ Ltd has received £1.25 million in funding from BP, with an additional £2 million support from Scottish Enterprise. The remaining £3.25 million of capital funding will be facilitated through the Scottish Government’s energy transition fund.
Voices of the Stakeholders
Professor Sir Jim McDonald, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “As a leading international technological university, Strathclyde is committed to applying its knowledge and research to achieve a net-zero economy. Operating NMIS, we are excited to collaborate with industry partners on the Energy Incubator and Scale-Up Hub, bringing our expertise in research, innovation, and skills development to the Energy Transition Zone.”
Chris Courtney, CEO of NMIS, added, “We are delighted to partner with NZTC, BP, and Scottish Enterprise to incubate and support the growth of ambitious and innovative companies that will create new products and services to drive the energy transition. With our extensive experience in collaborative innovation and strong entrepreneurial approach, we can help companies develop their ideas, build networks, and access new markets. Together, we can capitalize on Aberdeen’s solid industrial heritage and foster the growth of new companies to drive the transition towards renewable energy in Scotland, the UK, and beyond.”
Maggie McGinlay, Chief Executive of ETZ Ltd, highlighted the significance of collaboration between industry and government in driving the energy transition, stating, “Innovation lies at the heart of the energy transition, and the Energy Incubator and Scale-Up Hub will enable us to expand our vital energy supply chain. The involvement of NZTC and NMIS, along with the support from BP and Scottish Enterprise, demonstrates the importance of collaboration in driving the energy transition and creating sustainable jobs and company growth. Aberdeen has always been renowned for its entrepreneurial focus in the energy sector, and this center will ensure we continue to support innovation and technology as we transition into green energy solutions.”
Conclusion
With the establishment of the energy incubator, Aberdeen is poised to become Scotland’s premier hub for energy innovation, driving forward the transition towards a sustainable and renewable energy future.
