Supported by the EPSRC's Place-Based Impact Accelerator Account funding stream, the Northern Net Zero Accelerator will make, collate and translate knowledge from research on Net Zero technologies, policy, energy and industrial systems, to deliver impact in partnership with regional industry, civic bodies and the third sector. The partnership will work together, towards a strong economy, and an improved environment, which is fair, and creates inclusive opportunities.
“The solutions to reducing industrial emissions are complex, multidisciplinary and cannot be provided by a single university. Working with other universities in the North East provides a great opportunity to find effective solutions, support the regions’ companies, both large and small, meet regional civic priorities and build new collaborations.”
Prof James Gilbert, Energy & Environment Institute Director, University of Hull
The partnership will take a place-based approach, bringing together university, civic, industry and third sector members to help plan and deliver regional Net Zero impacts.
The co-created theme of the NNZA is “Energy Systems for a Decarbonised Economy”. Over a four year period, it will support innovation clusters and supply chains and will seek to:
- Deliver place-based impact through projects, which generate new products and processes or evidence to support policy development.
- Develop skills across academic, civic, industrial and third sector institutions to better deliver co-creation, public engagement, and knowledge transfer.
- Build the regional economy through commercialisation of innovation, including spin-outs, IP licences, private equity investment and jobs.
Priority Areas
The NNZA supports enduring partnerships across the North East, Teesside, and Humber to translate net-zero research into practical solutions that focus on three strategic areas:
Low Carbon Energy Generation
Advancing bioenergy, geothermal, hydrogen, onshore and offshore wind, subsea, photovoltaic energy, and other sources of low carbon energy.
Energy Storage and Distribution
Developing batteries, carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS), and hydrogen for excess energy storage.
Integration into End Use Sectors
Strengthening grid networks, industrial decarbonisation, net-zero/circular economy transitions (products, supply chains, and end-users), and transport solutions.
Funding is available for activities relating to Projects, Partnerships, People and Promotions. For more information visit the Northern Net Zero Accelerator website.