£13.1m Teesside net zero innovation centre to put region “at the heart of the green industrial revolution”

Partners in a new development which positions Teesside “firmly at the heart of the green industrial revolution” came together this week to mark the beginning of the build and highlight the importance the project will have on the region and beyond.

Located at the expanding Tees Valley Net Zero Innovation Hub, the £13.1m Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre (NZIIC) will support the drive for clean energy. The project has received £5.2m in funding from the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority and the European Regional Development Fund.

The NZIIC will play a vital role in the delivery of Net Zero ambitions for the region and the UK. A hub for industrial decarbonisation and a national centre of excellence for net zero technologies, it positions Teesside “firmly at the heart of the UK’s green industrial revolution, providing a focus for major investment”.

The NZIIC will grow net zero capabilities and opportunities, creating hundreds more clean energy jobs and strengthening the existing innovation ecosystem through provision of specialist facilities and support.

Main contractor Robertson has prioritised the use of innovative materials, techniques, and equipment to ensure the build itself maintains the net zero ethos of the project.

The NZIIC is the latest project in Teesside University’s Campus Masterplan, which has already seen £275m invested to date, with continued development and investment through to 2027.

Professor Steve Cummings, pro vice-chancellor (research and innovation) at Teesside University, commented: “Forging a smarter and greener industrial economy is a key focus of the research undertaken by Teesside University. The Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre is integral to the delivery of this activity.

“Aligning the expertise of the University with industry needs and government priorities, the NZIIC will deliver a clear impact across collaborative research and development, enhanced productivity, environmental and business sustainability. It marks a unique opportunity to grow capabilities across clean energy and the circular economy.”

Professor Paul Croney OBE, vice-chancellor and chief executive of Teesside University, added: “Teesside University is committed to becoming a Net Zero institution by 2030 and this latest development is a testament to those ambitions.

“Working with our partners, this development will support our work, not only in sustainability, but in driving change through skills development, research and innovation.”