Midlands Energy Summit 2023

The fifth annual Midlands Energy Summit, held as a partnership between the University of Nottingham Energy Institute and East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, took place on 30 November 2023 in the impressive Trent Building on the university's main campus.

The event is now seen as an important date in the energy calendar, with key energy stakeholders from across the region in attendance. Chris Hobson, Director of Policy and External Affairs at East Midlands Chamber welcomed delegates and introduced speakers from across academia, industry, and Government, as part of a packed agenda to explore how we can work together to achieve net zero and enable sustainable economic growth.

Agenda highlights included Development and Sustainability Director Andy Nolan, who described how the University is building a sustainable future, and the University’s Energy Institute Director David Grant, who gave an insight into the latest cutting-edge energy research initiatives. David encouraged anyone interested in collaborating with the University to reach out to the Energy Institute team. They can help to forge links, identifying mutually beneficial partnerships between external partner organisations and world-class academics, researchers and graduate talent in the energy field.

Also featured, was Faye McAnulla of the Energy Research Accelerator. Faye spoke about regional collaborations for the net zero agenda. David Parfitt of the National Grid, described future energy scenarios based on key data, John Malpas of Toyota explained plans to become carbon neutral, and Paul Gleaves of Consultus spoke about what can be done to mitigate high priced and volatile energy markets.

During the event, Tom Newman-Taylor, CEO of the East Midlands Freeport, was pleased to announce that the University of Nottingham and Loughborough University have been awarded over five million pounds from the Freeport to develop a zero carbon innovation centre which will accelerate the translation of zero carbon research into high-impact commercial and policy solutions. This new award will help to consolidate the East Midlands’ position as a world leader in the development and deployment of innovation, with an associated boost to economic growth.

Panel discussions followed, with an engaged audience quizzing panelists about the topics of the day and the opportunities presented by the Freeport award for the region.

Many thanks to East Midlands Chamber for doing such an excellent job in working with us in the organisation of the event, and providing excellent hosting on the day.

If you would like to find out more or are interested in collaborating with the University please contact us.