The North East can become a leading region in the development of a green economy
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Jack Simpson, North East England Chamber of Commerce, Training and Global Network Adviser latest column in the Journal
Looking out of my window to another typical British wet and windy day, some might joke “how about this global warming?” But from Germany to Australia climate disasters are more common, dangerous reminders of a changing world.
UK hosts COP26 in November, a UN conference at which global leaders are expected to commit to further action on climate change. The UK already plans to be carbon neutral by 2050 and ban diesel car sales by 2030. While this may cause concerns, I see it as big opportunity.
The North East is can become a leading region in the development of a green economy, particularly with the news of two new renewable battery factories planned. ‘BritishVolt’ the UK’s largest Gigafactory (lithium-ion battery factory) and with a £1bn investment ‘Envision’ will be developed alongside Sunderland’s Nissan factory.
This opens up huge potential. One report estimates 70% of vehicles sold by 2040 will be electric, yet Europe has a major battery production shortage, with over half of global Gigagfactories based in China.
If we follow in the footsteps of Nissan and establish the most productive battery plants in Europe, then we could be looking at a new era of global prosperity and identity for the region.
But all this needs power, right? Luckily the North East already has the renowned Blyth Energy Centre, pioneering offshore wind technologies and production. While on Teesside, Dogger Bank plans to become the world’s largest wind farm- already announcing the arrival of GE who will develop 107m long turbine blades, 20m longer than Big Ben!
The move from coal to renewable energy will be a long process, but a worthwhile one. There have also been private initiatives such as Newcastle Airport’s new solar farm to offset their carbon footprint. All this helps in our regional fight against climate change.
I would make two asks on this. One, not to rest on our laurels. As exciting as all this is, we should try and think why these investments came to the region, take those lessons, and explore how we can attract more and different green technologies.
Second, remember this is a transition. Looking at our history, we must help workers re-skill, find and access new jobs when they arrive, retain university students and support college graduates. These developments must be something that happens with us, not to us.
There is a long way to go in the battle for a sustainable planet, but our region is well-placed to take advantage of the opportunities it presents.