Sustainable energy solutions developer Vital Energi has opened a dedicated facility in Newcastle to support the local government’s effort to accelerate decarbonisation across the North East. The expansion comes as the result of a growing pipeline of energy generation, networks, and storage solutions worth £2.5 billion.
Vital Energi is currently involved in implementing several energy projects in the North East of England, most notably the construction of the £3.6 million solar farm at Newcastle International Airport. Past projects include the implementation of the 550-property district heating scheme aimed at reducing fuel poverty and carbon emissions on the Riverside Dene estate.
To deliver current and future work, Vital Energi’s 760-strong workforce will increase by approximately 50%, adding 400 new green jobs in the UK over the next five years. As well as opening a Newcastle office, Vital Energi is expanding its presence in Scotland and opening an office in Swansea. Its Blackburn headquarters has also undergone a major refurbishment to modernise the office space and increase seating capacity by a third.
The regional offices will facilitate direct collaboration with local authorities and housing associations to tackle fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions. They will also support the firm to build on decarbonisation projects for other organisations including universities, hospitals, airports, and the industrial sector.
This expansion marks the next step in Vital Energi’s pathway to not only develop and deliver energy assets but also be the asset owner. Through strategic collaborations, the company continues to strengthen its ability to develop, deliver and own energy infrastructure and generation assets that benefit local communities across the UK.
As well as educating and training the green workforce of the future within its £2 million state-of-the-art training facility in Blackburn, Vital Energi also invites industry organisations to learn from their experts, addressing the need to train, upskill, and reskill workforce in line with the UK’s net zero ambitions.
Cllr Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, said:
“It’s really pleasing to see Vital Energi’s expansion into Newcastle and they will be a welcome addition to the city’s ever-growing green industries, providing more green jobs and inclusive growth to Newcastle, as we continue our collective push towards net zero.
“We’re incredibly proud of Newcastle’s position and reputation as a climate change leader and this is another sign that there is strong confidence in Newcastle to help implement the meaningful and lasting change that climate change requires.
“As a council, we’re committed to working with our communities to create a green and sustainable city, and it’s fantastic to see more and more businesses recognising Newcastle as a place where they can make a real difference towards safeguarding the future of our planet.”
Mike Cooke, Managing Director for Vital Energi, said:
“Our expansion across the UK demonstrates Vital Energi’s dedication to advancing the nation’s transition to net zero. By opening new offices in strategic locations, we aim to develop, implement and own innovative, low-carbon energy systems.
“Alongside this growth, we’re driving an ambitious recruitment campaign to fill a wide range of green jobs. We’re creating exciting opportunities for individuals passionate about sustainability and clean energy to join our mission of protecting our planet for future generations. We are committed to contributing to the country’s net zero goals by cultivating a highly skilled workforce and collaborating with public and private sector partners.”
