Eni and the University of Strathclyde are joining forces to help Scottish oil workers transition into renewables.
The Italian operator has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Glasgow-based university to develop and deliver a programme for workers to transfer skills into renewable energy tech.
They will “promote a new approach” on the delivery of future energy supply in Scotland, “championing the creation of local employment and opportunities for local enterprises”, the pair said in a joint statement.
Over an initial two-year period, the agreement aims to build on the experience of Eni working offshore and Strathclyde Uni’s renewable energy expertise.
Eni is active in the UK as operator of the Liverpool Bay area, where it was recently awarded a Co2 appraisal and storage licence.
It is also working on carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects for Net Zero Teesside and, in December, announced a deal to buy a 20% stake in the huge Dogger Bank wind farm.
The firm holds stakes in some assets in Scotland, which are operated by other companies.
Alessandro Della Zoppa, director of Eni Energy Solutions, said: “We are delighted to partner with the prestigious University of Strathclyde to develop a ground-breaking programme that intends to inspire the industry and create a model to replicate in the UK and internationally.
“Ensuring a successful transition of workforces from fossil fuels activities to renewables and green technologies is key to our decarbonisation strategy and consistent with our DNA as a socially responsible company in the countries where we operate”.
The pair will extend collaboration to research projects in offshore wind, with particular view to development of floating wind tech.
Principal and vice-chancellor of Strathclyde University, professor Sir Jim McDonald, said: “Innovative Companies like Eni are central to a successful transition to renewable energy and the achievement of net zero emissions.
“They can utilise their extensive energy sector expertise and financial resources to accelerate the transition from carbon-based fuels to renewables and make the latter more economically-viable.
“At Strathclyde we have a vast array of industry knowledge, cutting-edge research and development and world-leading expertise in renewable energy, helping to create the technologies of the future that will power our planet without damaging the ecosystem”.
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