Government greenlights plans to secure Humber’s position as clean energy powerhouse

Proposals developed by a regional partnership including the Hull and East Yorkshire Combined Authority, the University of Hull and industry collaborators, will now progress to the next stage of the competitive Local Innovation Partnership Fund (LIPF).

This endorsement allows the partnership to progress plans to unlock up to £30 million in national investment in the region, reinforcing the Humber’s position as the UK’s leading clean energy hub.

The funding will support a portfolio of projects to drive innovation across a range of clean energy technologies. It reflects shared ambitions across the Humber and Tees Valley for innovation-led growth in the energy sector.

Regional partners include the Humber Energy Board, Humber Freeport, CATCH UK and the University of Lincoln.

UK Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said: “It is a tribute to the pioneering spirit in every corner of our country that we are backing nations and regions across the UK to advance innovation in everything from defence to AI and clean energy to space tech.

“Across East Yorkshire, Hull and Tees Valley, the funding will back clean energy innovation, building on these regions’ industrial strengths to support jobs and growth.

“By working with local leaders, researchers, and businesses, we can unleash transformational research and products that improve lives.”

Welcoming the announcement Interim Vice-Chancellor Professor Kevin Kerrigan said:

“This backing recognises the strength of our regional partnerships and the critical role the University of Hull plays in driving economic growth, accelerating technology development and supporting industry to innovate at pace.

“This is exactly the kind of ambitious, collaborative programme the Humber needs to unlock the next wave of innovation in clean energy. It will support the region’s transition from the UK’s largest carbon emitting industrial cluster to a global exemplar of industrial leadership in this sector.

“The Humber is uniquely positioned to lead the UK’s clean energy transition, but real progress happens when business, academia and civic partners move forward together. This initiative will help create the conditions for high quality jobs, investment and skills to flourish - ensuring our region remains globally competitive.”

The University of Hull brings more than a decade of university led innovation, including the Aura Innovation Centre, two UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) funded Centres for Doctoral Training in offshore wind, and a strong portfolio of industrial R&D partnerships.

With 33% of the UK’s offshore wind capacity, nationally significant hydrogen and CO₂ storage infrastructure, and world-class industrial assets, the Humber is ideally positioned to lead the UK’s clean energy future.

Working with colleagues across Tees Valley to advance shared ambitions on industrial decarbonisation and clean energy innovation creates the potential for a true northern powerhouse, driving innovation led growth and jobs.