Research

Midlands Energy Summit 2024

Posted on Monday 2nd December 2024

TomRoddenThe sixth annual Midlands Energy Summit, held as a partnership between the University of Nottingham Energy Institute and East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, took place on 28 November 2024 at the impressive Toyota site near Derby. This event is now seen as an important date in the energy calendar, with key energy stakeholders from across the region in attendance.

East Midlands Chamber Director of Policy and Insight Richard Blackmore opened the summit, followed by Professor Tom Rodden, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Research & Knowledge Exchange, who welcomed delegates on behalf of the University of Nottingham. Tom was followed by a video keynote speech from Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands since May this year, when she was elected to lead the new East Midlands Combined Authority.

Agenda highlights included Professor Lucelia Rodrigues, showcasing outcomes of the recent Policy Commission for a Just Transition to Net Zero; Tom Newman Taylor, CEO of East Midlands Freeport, with an update on regional opportunties; John Malpas, on the future of carbon neutrality at Toyota; Michael Crawforth, with an update on Rolls Royce Small Modular Reactors; Nick King on the achievments of the HyDEX initiative; and Greg Harris, to outline future plans of Intelligent Energy.

Professor Mark Gillott of the University’s Energy Institute gave an insight into the latest cutting-edge energy research initiatives. Mark 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. Mark commented:

Research is vital in terms of developing the systems, ideas and technologies of the future to address the big issues such as climate change, but more importantly, working collaboratively across disciplines and with industry is essential to get these research ideas out into the real world.

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

Hearing from all the speakers and panellists it is clear we have a big opportunity to be at the forefront of energy creation, storage and innovation. Along with the will, innovative industry and the regional political frameworks, which will ensure we have the support and skills to drive this agenda forward, the East Midlands can be at the forefront of the transition to clean, green energy.

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. Thanks also to HyDEX and Tomato Energy for their sponsorship of the event.

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

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