Hoping for a ‘more intelligent debate’ on the future of Grangemouth
The Grangemouth debate needs to be accompanied by the determination to turn the recommendations of Project Willow into reality, writes Brian Wilson
Insights
Exposé: Hydrogen boiler trial yet to receive safety approvals amid ‘explosion’ fears
A hydrogen boiler trial in Fife, which is the only ongoing test of its kind, has yet to receive safety approvals months after the associated network was installed.
‘The limits of feasibility’ – can the UK achieve clean power by 2030?
A clean power system by 2030 will require key elements of the UK’s energy system to deliver simultaneously “at the limits of what is feasible”, according to the UK’s National System Operator (NESO). In a three-part series, focusing on bulk generation, connectivity and operational flexibility, Energy Voice examines the UK’s chances of success.
The Emperor’s New Clothes: Will supermajors survive the energy transition?
Oil and gas supermajors' swan legs are kicking frantically below the surface as they attempt to navigate the energy transition. In the first of a two-part series, we examine Equinor's approach.
Energy Voices – Max Aitken: Clean power – ‘now it’s kind of sexy’
Max Aitken has a richly studded career of investing in innovative clean energy start-ups. From an early investment in BP Pulse, to co-founding bioenergy company Estover, and solar carpark charging company 3ti, he was an early stakeholder in the energy transition.
National Grid journeys through time: apprenticeships 20 years apart
Apprenticeships are vital for developing the skills needed to accelerate the delivery of clean energy infrastructure and to help the UK reap the rewards of the energy transition: economic growth, energy security and less exposure to volatile gas prices.
Starmer reforms nuclear planning to avoid being “hostage to Putin”
Prime minister Keir Starmer is placing his bets on small nuclear reactors to meet the country’s energy needs after a public backlash over big expensive nuclear projects.
Why waste water is key to sustainable hydrogen production
As the world transitions to cleaner energy sources, hydrogen is emerging as a cornerstone of the green energy revolution.
The LNG curse: a political blessing in disguise?
A looming glut of LNG will loosen global energy markets in the next few years. Might this ease UK energy bills in time for the next general election?
Tackling mental health as a young professional
Tackling negative connotations that may impact the mental health and morale of those entering the world of work.
Is net zero also a threat to UK democracy?
I’ve said this before and while not a Nobel Prize standard observation, it makes sense that if politicians can’t carry the people with them then they really need a rethink.
‘Clean power by 2030’: net-zero targets versus common sense
It was bad luck for Ed Miliband that his appearance before the House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee fell on the same day that a report by Cornwall Insight predicted the UK would fall 32GW short of his ‘clean power by 2030’ target.
Using Earth power to make ammonia
Delving into the world of energy science and technology has long been a fascination of mine. It is an interest that personally reaches right back to 1958 in New Zealand.
Voltalis pledges £1bn after Ofgem demand response reform
An arcane Ofgem decision is bearing fruit. The regulator’s move to carve out space for demand-side response in the UK market has triggered a significant £1 billion investment from French energy technology company Voltalis.
North Sea industry urgently needs clarity after Rosebank and Jackdaw ruling
Edinburgh’s court of session decision this week will allow continuing development of North Sea oil and gas fields pending supplementary environmental impact assessments of downstream emissions.
BP is not moving fast enough in the energy transition
An impending ban on petrol cars and an upcoming government review of drilling licences has created a perfect storm for supermajors.
Why we need a different approach to net zero in 2025
Since the publication of the UK government’s Clean Power 2030 Action Plan late last year, we’ve seen a renewed focus on the country’s energy transition.
Over 70% of Scots champion UK oil and gas as majority back clean power plans
The latest in a series of polls gauging opinion on the UK energy sector has found that the vast majority of locals yet again support domestic North Sea oil and gas production.
Investing with a purpose: growth with social impact
Businesses are increasingly expected to do more than generate profit, and for Balmoral Group this expectation is a guiding principle. With a rich history of over 40 years, Balmoral is not just building successful businesses – it’s building a legacy of sustainable growth and social impact.
Prepare your global energy workforce for the second Trump administration
As President Trump embarks on his second term, leaders in the global energy sector are examining how potential shifts in immigration policy might impact their workforce and operations.
Ceres first fuel cell company to dip its toes in FTSE250 – Rags to Riches
A fuel cell company from West Sussex now trades on the main market of the London Stock Exchange and has its sights set abroad, according to its CEO Phil Caldwell.
Building capacity in UK offshore wind requires a global view
As the UK’s Labour government marks six months in office, it has made clear that wind power is a key component in its sustainability plans.
Diversify or Atrophy: the energy transition finance dilemma
Does energy transition finance need recategorising so decarbonisation isn’t left behind?
Work with the energy supply chain or risk driving it away
While the new year is intended to represent the opportunity for new beginnings, there is unfortunately no shaking the clouds over our domestic supply chain.
Hopes for 2025 are blowing in the offshore wind
What will 2025 bring for the UK offshore wind sector?