North East is at the forefront of environmental innovation

THE North East has emerged as a leader in the national green economy.

With major renewable energy projects and a strong commitment to sustainable technologies, the region is positioning itself at the forefront of environmental innovation. This transformation not only benefits the environment, but also drives economic growth and creates new job opportunities.

A ground-breaking wind turbine test facility, celebrated as the most advanced globally to date, is set to be constructed in Northumberland with an £86m investment in green energy. Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult’s National Renewable Energy Centre in Blyth will focus on testing, validating and certifying wind turbines, significantly reducing CO2 emissions.

The Government-funded facility is expected to prevent 2.5m tonnes of CO2 emissions – equivalent to twice the annual emissions of Newcastle’s population – within an eight-and-ahalf-month period, by accelerating the deployment of larger and more efficient wind turbines.

This initiative will ensure that a greater share of the energy powering homes and businesses is derived from eco-friendly sources, contributing substantially to the region’s sustainable energy goals.

The project is part of a broader effort in the North East that leads sustainable development and green technology.

This initiative is one of many, such as the Tees Valley hydrogen transport hub, which is establishing a hydrogen economy, and the North East Battery Alliance’s advancements, which are leading the battery industry and attracting further investments into the region.

Additionally, Net Zero Teesside Power is a collection of industrial, power and hydrogen businesses which aims to decarbonise its operations through the deployment of carbon capture utilization and storage.

The North East Chamber of Commerce continues to work together with businesses and institutions to remove the barriers to green innovation and drive forward decarbonisation.