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Lisa Buck, Author at

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Hulking Humber bank process plants need to clean their operations up. New infrastructure is required at an eye-blinking scale to bring in greener fuels and extract the harmful emissions currently belching out from the sky-piercing stacks, burying them deep below the near North Sea instead.

Net Zero goes well beyond offshore wind here in the second most carbon intensive industrial cluster in Europe. And while polarised policies and pounds in the public’s pockets or funding pots get the headlines on the meandering route to a planet-friendlier future, it is the people it needs to deliver where a real shortfall is seen.

Successful decarbonisation, not de-industrialisation, is the prize the region has in its sights, and the critical mass is as much about the trades as it is the abatement of those fossil fuel fumes. Projects worth upwards of £18 billion are being eyed – jobs in the tens of thousands. Yet mechanical fitters, pipefitters, process engineers, project managers, designers, riggers and site managers are among the most difficult roles to fill, with ECITB research released last week revealing three quarters of employers are already struggling, above the national average.
Looking to solve this part of the equation, while supporting the work to win over hearts and minds about the Humber’s case for hydrogen, carbon capture and storage and further skills investment, is David Talbot. Chief executive at industry training centre Catch, he has just entered his 10th year at the helm of the Stallingborough facility.

When he joined it was a member organisation and landlord to other training providers, with a process unit to simulate with water and donated kit what was happening in closed environments in the near neighbourhood. It started life under the name Humber Chemical Focus, evolving to take the title of the facility, seen as unique to an industry keen to address that age-old skills gap – ever present without the demand now forecast by a project pipeline packed with ambition.

Mr Talbot, a former RAF squadron leader, had been a key figure in the emergence of BAE Systems’ Aircraft Maintenance Academy at Humberside Airport, and headed along the A180 to start the transition from landlord to training organisations, to an organisation training its own.
“The transition happened fairly quickly, Mr Talbot recalled. “In 2017 we set up our own provision with Catch Skills, adult skills provision in regulatory health and safety-type training, and it just took off from there.”
Catch was admitted to the Apprenticeship Register in 2021, and grand plans for the end of the decade we now sit in the midst of began to emerge.

“We, as Catch, delivered the Humber Industrial Cluster Plan – the roadmap to Net Zero – on which we worked with HEY LEP and key employers around the region, who became partners. It saw the carbon capture cluster sequencing projects Viking CCS and Humber Zero come together, and come to us, in what has now become quite a pivotal moment for Catch; to ask what it would take to go from 100 apprentices a year to 1,000.

“That was the headline message. And true to their word, that partnership of the key emitters, coupled with the Viking CCS programme, has led to a £1.2 million investment from industry, and on what we are now starting to work on, £4.5 million funding from Humber Freeport and £300,000 from ECITB, which has led to a whole phased programme that will get us to that 1,000.”

That programme started with a welding hub “something we could achieve quickly” which saw a fabrication workshop refurbished, providing the largest capacity for such training in England, with 79 bays. “It is a real game changer in terms of the regional output for welding, fabrication and pipefitting trades,” Mr Talbot said.

That’s just the start. Catch is now in the middle of a fifth phase of growth since opening in 2006. A new build Renewable Energy Training Centre will support wind turbine technicians, but the mechanical skills on offer will benefit all energy intensive industries on Net Zero journey.
It is with planners for the last plot on the current footprint, with an Industrial Decarbonisation Centre also in planning – a redevelopment of the original administration building to deliver networking, events and conferences, all encouraging the sharing of industry best practice. It will boast a 120-seater capacity theatre-style capability, with collaboration areas. Virtual and augmented reality will complement the hands-on facilities Catch offers.

“It is really exciting, it will help us to support the region to get to Net Zero, through support for inward investment, support for innovation and an expansion of our membership activity to deliver even more,” Mr Talbot said.

The final element is a brand new centre on the greenfield site, adjacent, with ambition to be up and running in 2029. The £60 million National Net Zero Training Centre concept was unveiled in September 2023. “That is the big prize, and there is a lot of work to go in on that one,” Mr Talbot said. “We’re just starting to plan that, and that’s a long-term aim.

“We’ve not stood still here, we can’t. We’ve already seen four phases of growth, and each time we have had a new phase, we have filled it and seen a need to expand further. For me that confirms our model is right.

“The message has been clear for some time. The Humber is the biggest industrial cluster in the UK, some 20 million tonnes of carbon are emitted every year, and we have got something like £20 billion of investment identified. You can’t build that infrastructure, operate it or maintain it, without the workforce. That’s what has been identified.

“We need 20,000 new engineering / construction trades people to build the infrastructure to get us to Net Zero. It is a transient workforce. If we don’t build that workforce now, we can have the best projects in the world, but we won’t be able to build them, and that’s what we’re here to support.”

And here is the dilemma. The Catch 22 perhaps, here in early 2025.

“There are great plans waiting for the green light,” Mr Talbot said, referring to the Humber’s overarching vision document. “A lot of the people we are developing will not work directly for the investing company though. Some will, but many will become part of the contractor workforce. Contractors cannot sign up to move ahead until the emitter has the green light. We are all waiting for the green light, getting that tier of contractors signed up, then we can deliver, but that means we are behind where we need to be. We are trying to pump prime the whole system here with that programme from industry, which is fantastic, but it is difficult and there are challenges.

“Our programme isn’t just about building facilities. We have that engine to deliver new entrants to industry, and not just apprentices. We also need to engage young people, make sure our message is getting out that we have some fantastic jobs, fantastic industries with full careers, that with a great trade behind them are well renumerated. We’re getting that out and have invested in a team to do that.

“There’s also the complexity of delivering an apprenticeship. It makes it difficult. There can be headcount issues, there will always be contractor/client relationship issues, and there is just a lot of red tape around delivery. We have got to look at different ways of solving that and helping employers take on the workforce that is needed.”

Awareness is working. “We are certainly getting enough people applying for our apprenticeships. We have 150 available at the moment, and we are getting 400 to 500 applications for those.” Diversity is increasing too, helped by programmes such as Women into Welding, showcasing potential and role models already out there.

The number of females enrolled across the past three years’ apprenticeships looks set to be eclipsed in the 2025 intake alone. “It has been an incredible period,” Mr Talbot said, buoyed by the recent £1 million ‘green skills’ pledge from Westminster to northern Lincolnshire too.

There’s also May’s regionalisation of adult education budgets to ponder too, with mayoral combined authorities coming to Greater Lincolnshire and Hull and East Yorkshire.

“I definitely see devolution as a positive for the region, for this industrial belt around the Humber. We can set our own agenda, and it is important there are a number of cross-over organisations, the likes of Future Humber, Humber Marine & Renewables and critically the Humber Energy Board and Humber Freeport. They are absolutely key, and we will be working together and sharing that agenda. We need to make sure the voice of industry is joined up and heard.”
It isn’t all plain sailing when it comes to political intervention though, as the Budget has proven.

“It is a very difficult environment where you have a cap on what you can sell, yet all your supplier costs and employment costs are going up. It does make it difficult to deliver, and it makes it difficult to have a differentiator. For example, we offer added value courses. Our apprentices go out oven-baked ready to go. We will have delivered working at height and working in confined space training, but all of that eats into that very small margin we have got. It gets harder and harder to deliver because the cap doesn’t increase, and in one of the apprenticeships it has actually reduced. They should all be going up with inflation.”

But the funding was a shot to the arm, as detail is awaited, as the team – grown from 16 to 80 in Mr Talbot’s tenure – look to widen the offering further, embracing supporting trades to those at the forefront of engineering a clean future.
“That was great news,” Mr Talbot said. “It is important to understand what that really means and ensure that is used as efficiently as possible to make sure we do deliver that growth in the energy sector.

“The messaging is great that skills are important to deliver the Net Zero agenda.”

 

Industry insight: James Ward, managing director, F.E.S. (Ex) Ltd.

Electrical, instrumentation and mechanical services contractor specialising in process safety, integrity and compliance – with expertise in explosive atmospheres in industrial settings. Based in North East Lincolnshire.

How I see the skills situation:
The future demand for skilled trades in the electrical and instrumentation industry is set to surge, particularly in regions like the Humber. The ambitious infrastructure projects on the horizon will require a significant influx of skilled professionals, far exceeding the usual annual intake needed to replace the retiring workforce in existing operations and contracting companies.

At F.E.S. (Ex) Ltd, we are enthusiastic about the opportunities this presents. We believe we can contribute to this demand. However, we are also acutely aware of the scale of this and the need for businesses to collaborate more than ever before. Our focus remains on ensuring that our workforce is equipped with the latest skills and knowledge to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving industry, along with continued investment into our apprentices.
Biggest challenges? Industry perception and competition for talent. Many young people may not see E&I trades as attractive career options compared to other fields. This requires us to actively promote the benefits and opportunities within the industry, highlighting career growth, job stability, and the potential for innovation.

With multiple industries vying for skilled workers, we must offer competitive salaries, benefits, and career development opportunities to attract and retain top talent.
Why is the industry rewarding? The E&I industry spans various sectors, including energy/renewables, manufacturing, construction, and technology. This diversity allows professionals to explore different career paths and specialisations, keeping their work dynamic and engaging.
It is at the forefront of technological advancements too. Working in E&I means being involved with cutting-edge technologies such as automation, smart grids, and renewable energy systems. This constant innovation provides a stimulating work environment and opportunities for continuous learning

With the growing need for infrastructure development and maintenance, the demand for skilled E&I professionals remains high. This translates to job stability and numerous employment opportunities across different regions and industries.

There are also ample opportunities for career advancement within the E&I industry too. Companies like F.E.S. often provide training programmes, certifications, and professional development courses to help employees enhance their skills.

 

Industry insight: Richard Law, director of business development for Technica Ltd and managing director of Technica Measurement.

Multi-discipline engineering design, management and construction provider, specialising in control, functional safety, fiscal metering and flow measurement, headquartered in Grimsby.

How I see the skills situation:
It is widely accepted that the demand for people is going to be a key problem for the industrial and energy clusters across the UK, and the Humber region is no different. The push for a greener future will be underpinned by some of the largest infrastructure construction projects which collectively have not been seen in this country since the Industrial Revolution. Couple the requirement for people involved in the construction of these projects with the need to replace natural outflow of personnel who will still be required to operate and maintain our legacy infrastructure, and it is clear to see that finding the right number of skilled people is a significant problem.

Biggest challenges? Technica and our specialist subsidiary, Technica Measurement, are ideally placed to play a key role in both the development of new projects such as hydrogen networks, carbon capture and other novel Net Zero projects, as well as supporting existing infrastructure both in the Humber and across the UK, but to do so and to realise this, we need to have the people with the right skills.

Through my work as a director of Technica Group and as a board member of the ECITB, it is clear that we need to think differently to address the skills shortage. Recognising the connected nature of some competencies across the industrial sector and making it simpler to transfer from one industry to another, or opening up work-ready programmes to offer training and employment to ex-offenders – and those who have been out of work long term – are ways in which we can do things differently.

We must double down on our efforts to attract young people too. Having met with the ECITB’s Innov8 team, who represent the younger generations within the engineering industry, it is clear today’s school leavers are not going to be attracted simply by the offer of a job. They want to feel engaged, see a clear career path with real opportunity for progression, undertaking meaningful work and gaining rewards which are more than simply salary-related.

The work of regional skills hubs, and specifically at Catch within the Humber, is going to be key to opening up these career routes, ensuring we stand the best possible chance of overcoming this significant hurdle.

Why the industry is so rewarding?
There can be a stigma attached to engineering careers and an incorrect perception that the work is perhaps boring. Coming from an engineering family, I have been around engineers all of my life, but from a career spanning almost 30 years, I can honestly say that no two days have ever been the same and I have had the pleasure to work with a diverse, hardworking and dedicated group of individuals, who have a silent pride in what they do.

There’s real social mobility. Growing up in an ex-mining town in South Yorkshire, I honestly thought that going to university was beyond my reach, but by being accepted onto a formal engineering training scheme, I went on to gain a Bachelors and then a Masters Degree in Engineering, have travelled all over the world and now find myself as a director of a business which plays a critical role in ensuring that we are able to heat our homes, that we have electricity, and that our industry has the energy it needs to keep the UK working. Most importantly, I am not unique, and within the industry and within Technica – from our Group Managing Director to many more of our employees – all entered the profession through formal training schemes.

Fred understands business. Fred understands the challenges, the opportunities, and the sectors that matter most. We provide director-led consultancy and marketing services across all forms of creative communications. Is it time for you to talk to Fred?
Email dave@fredmarketing.co.uk or call 01482 227227.

 


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CATCH hosted the Humber Industrial Decarbonisation Network on February 5th. The group chair Joe Howe, Net Zero Professor at the University of Lincoln, welcomed over 45 members in the room and 46 members and guests online, to this thriving CATCH Network.

Joe introduced our first speaker Olivia Powis, CEO of the Carbon Capture and Storage Association. Olivia spoke about the CCSA and its work before explaining the history and support of CCUS in the UK and key developments since the change of government. The UK government, at pace, have been pushing changes, including the appointment of Chris Stark – mission control for clean power, a national wealth fund, launch of GB Energy and associated legislation, launch of NESO, plus they have committed £ 21.7 billion investment over 25 years to the first decarbonisation projects. The CCSA are in the process of preparing a Spring budget submission, urging the government to move forward with the carbon capture in the next industrial clusters. Highlighting opportunities and growth for UK PLC.

The CCSA launched a study in the European parliament in December 2024, that explored the benefits of opening a European-wide storage market, Olivia explained the multiple benefits including a 20% cost saving. REPORT LINK. Next Olivia discussed that supporting the Supply Chain and Skills are a real opportunity for the UK. However, the Government must act now and move forward with projects to enable supply chain and skills industries to have confidence and invest.

Next Joe introduced Amelia Mitchell, Managing Consultant with ERM, who spoke about their new Energy from Waste with CCS: a key pillar for NetZero in the UK report. Amelia explained, CCS is the only technology available to minimise EfW scope 1 emissions and generates valuable Greenhouse Gas Removals for the energy from waste sector.

The report mapped out a pipeline of opportunities for CCS in the UK. Identifying facilities and energy to waste assets across four stages. Deploying this across all stages will require 19 billion of investment – which is just the equipment. However, EfW will contribute 27% of the UK 2035 GGR target. Other benefits include 4800 construction jobs, 9350 permanent green jobs.

Amelia referenced the HICP document and how this supports the wider plans of imports of CO2 for storage to the Humber cluster from across the UK and Europe. And highlighted the importance of non-pipeline transport as 54% of facilities require non-pipeline transport to minimize cost of CCS. Transport methods include shipping at 41% and rail at 20%. These methods are a key enabler for energy from waste sector.

After networking and coffee break, Joe welcomed Tim Roff, United Living. Tim explained the United Living business, who work for UK owners and operators of UK pipeline infrastructure, assets and facilities. Tim explained that United Living are actively engaged in the hydrogen, CCS sectors across UK industrial clusters.

Tim then discussed how United Living are collaborating for skills and knowledge, participating in numerous boards and networks across the UK. Tim also explained how they collaborate for impact in regard to Environmental, Economy and Social impacts.

Next Tim discussed Hyrodgen Pipelines, connecting new produces with users. A first of the kind in the UK industrial clusters. The schemes that they are exploring are new build pipelines of 125km and 90km of pipelines within the HyNet cluster.

Next Tim introduced his colleague, Mike who spoke about CO2 pipelines – connecting emitters to new storage facilities. Mike explained about “Project 1” including enabling works that involve steel cross country pipelines, new build pipelines, re purposing sections to decommissioning assets. Mike discussed the challenges including the length of time of contract negotiations and delayed start of works and skill sets and consenting.

Joe closed the meeting with a reminder of the date for the next meeting – 26th March 2025. For more information, please contact katie.hedges@catchuk.org


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Joe Howe, Net Zero Humber Professor, University of Lincoln opened the meeting, to an audience of 75 delegates, both in person and online. Joe welcomed sponsors Amentum and thanked them for their support and discussed their journey from Jacobs and their exciting future.

Kelly Aldis, UKRI and Alyssa Fournier, Guidehouse discussed Enabling Net Zero: Progress on deploying CCS to decarbonise UK industrial clusters. Kelly discussed the Industrial decarbonisation challenge that was launched in 2019. The IDC provided £210M in funding via three streams, Deployment projects, Cluster plans and IDRIC. The three IDC projects in the Humber region include – HumberZero, ZeroCarbon Humber and Northern Endurance Partnership. Next, Kelly and Alyssa, they discussed the 9 IDC deployment projects contributions to UK goals. Alyssa walked the group through the challenges including technical, regulatory, permitting, procurement and execution and discussed he four main recommendations to overcome these challenges. The report can be downloaded here – www.ukri.org/publications/enabling-net-zero-progress-on-decarbonising-uk-industrial-clusters/

Next James Todd, Arup, discussed Hydrogen Storage for Net Zero: Unveiling the Underground Potential. James discussed Hydrogens role in long duration energy storage and the challenge, including that storage isn’t quick, easy or cheap. Three areas of store they are looking at include salt caverns, depleted fields, and lined rock. James highlighted that storage is critical to the 2035 energy system. James discussed the IDRIC funded research, including the targets, technologies and the actions and recommendations. With a key message of “get on with it”! https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld5804/ldselect/ldsctech/68/68.pdf

After a quick coffee beak, sponsors Paul Hennessey, Amentum discussed the strategic case for Nuclear Derived Hydrogen in meeting the UK’s net zero commitments. Firstly, Paul discussed the launch of their new brand and their core markets including energy transition, cyber-security and infrastructure. Paul then discussed the energy trilemma – energy security, energy sustainability and energy affordability. Nuclear offers a strong alternative to grid, a non-intermittent, secure energy supply, proven low-cost power and net zero technology solution. Paul discussed the current energy mix and additional demand modelling – highlighting the possible capacity gap is 190 GW in grid demand, including electrification and hydrogen. Also stating that 20-35% of the UK’s Energy consumption by 2050 could be hydrogen-based. Policy is now starting to support the alternative to grid for nuclear, with hydrogen entering policy language and head and hydrogen used as official cases in Nuclear road map. https://www.gov.uk/government/news/biggest-expansion-of-nuclear-power-for-70-years-to-create-jobs-reduce-bills-and-strengthen-britains-energy-security

Next, Paul discussed hydrogen production methods, the different types of hydrogen and the role of nuclear heat to produce hydrogen at scale. Along with the different types of reactors approaching commercialisation. Paul also discussed the benefits of nuclear, including increased load factor / capacity (77%) and the efficiency of a nuclear plant used for heat / steam generation – 80%. Therefore, producing a low levelized cost hydrogen of $1.5-3 per/kg. Next, Paul gave the group an update on the world’s first nuclear / hydrogen trial at Heysham Lancaster to prove the cost modelling. Discussed the potential size of the UK Market across the clusters and highlighted that there was a significant Hydrogen demand and therefore a significant energy demand. Paul closed his presentation by discussing the current market and latest project and development news and provided some statistics on what impacts a nuclear derived hydrogen project could deliver, such as 11k jobs, £11bn investment, 33% of regions hydrogen demand!

Our last speaker, Colin Matthews, Causeway discussed the Hidden Clean Energy Giant in Lincolnshire – Potential for Geothermal Energy. Colin gave background on the Causeway Energy company before discussing the energy flow and where energy is lost and can be conserved. Colin then talked about geothermal opportunities in the UK, and the fact that the east coast cluster sits in a key geothermal area. Next Colin highlighted that the key for geothermal is the ability to deliver decarbonisation at a factory level directly underneath the ground and with the flexibility to deliver specifically what an individual factory may need. Colin expanded on the different depths of drilling and the heat available, and the infrastructure required for domestic to commercial to industry, including the cost savings. Colin then discussed the barriers to geothermal deployment including, the business case, technology, capital costs and scalability.

Joe closed the meeting, thanking Amentum for their sponsorship and inviting in-person delegates to stay for lunch!


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CATCH, is pleased to announce the appointment of Nick Booth, Assistant Plant Manager at Uniper’s Cottam Development Centre and Killingholme sites, as the new Chair of the Board.

Nick, who was voted in as the new Chair at the June Board meeting following the departure of Richard Stansfield, had his position ratified at the Annual General Meeting in September. He joined the board in September 2022 and has already shown a deep understanding of the business and has supported our emerging work strands.

Alongside Nick, CATCH welcomed four new board Members at the September Meeting, Michael Bartlett from Amentum, Roger Pearce from ABP, Wesley Sugden-Brook of Singleton Birch, and Lesley Potts representing North Lincolnshire Council.

David Talbot said, “On behalf of the board, we are looking forward to continuing to work with Nick in his new capacity as Chair. We welcome his expertise, support, and fresh perspective as we advance our exciting plans to scale up training on site 10-fold over the next 5-years”

“We also welcome to the fold our new board Members, whose expertise and leadership will help guide our journey as region’s leading provider of industry-focused training and apprenticeships”

Nick Booth, said: “CATCH has a fantastic heritage in delivering education and training solutions to meet the needs of the regional industry partners, so I’m very pleased to be invited to chair the industry members’ board. I’m looking forward to playing a part in helping foster the ongoing industry collaboration as CATCH shapes its exciting plans to prepare people for the net zero career opportunities of the future.”

The CATCH Board comprises of 25 Member organisations representing public and private sectors and academia. For further information please visit www.catchuk.org


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Over 40 in Person and online guests were welcomed to the CATCH Industrial Decarbonisation Network by our event chair David Talbot, CATCH CEO, which took place at CATCH on the 22nd October.

David introduced Catherine Spriggs, Net Zero Programme Manager, HSE, who opened the meeting talking about the Health & Safety Executive Net Zero Programme & Priorities. Catherine discussed the HSE role in the net zero journey, particularly where there are safety challenges and how the industry will look in the future. Catherine explained the HSE structure and how they are responsible for their own policies – the functions that are within the Net Zero sphere include, Science, Policy and Regulation.

Catherine then discussed new industries, growing industries, changing industries and legacy industries and how the HSE will be supporting and regulating these four areas.

Catherine then discussed some current challenges including, significant industrial development plans, including large scale hydrogen and CO2  pipeline transport in the UK.  She highlighted Engineers as key roles in projects development, from understanding the regulations to the design process, to advising clients and working across the industry.  Then advised on specific technical safety challenges in CCS, Hydrogen and Pressure Systems.

After questions, Tom Glyn-Jones, Senior Advisor (Decarbonisation & Net Zero) Climate Change & Energy Programme, Environment Agency, covered their role in enabling UK net zero and invited companies to reach out with any questions. Tom started by discussing the EA climate ambition, including regulating to drive down greenhouse gas emissions, regulating carbon markets, creating a circular economy, and working to advise on land use and sustainable development.

Tom told the group the EA’s role is Permitting and Regulation for air, land and water, the planning process, sustainable development to enable UK Net Zero and the UKs Emission trading scheme. And then discussed more specifically the EA’s role in Hydrogen and carbon capture use and storage, including support and guidance on water, air quality and flood risk. Next Tom covered planning for CO2 pipelines and that the EA is a consultee providing regulatory oversight and ensuring low carbon technologies and projects are part of UK ETS. The HCCUS programme that has been set up by the EA, includes collaboration with government and key stakeholders using a scientific evidence base approach. Making sure they have the correct teams with expertise to manage permitting and regulation across the industrial clusters.

Tom explained that from Feb 2026, there will be a new mandate for Decarbonisation readiness for power generation and a consultation on EPR Permits will take place in 2025. Tom provided and an update on the DESNZ project on Environmental Capacity Challenges in industrial clusters including an update on water availability and quality and air quality –https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/environmental-capacity-for-industrial-clusters

Plus a further update on their digital twin technology project – the report can be found here – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/environmental-capacity-for-industrial-clusters

After the networking coffee break, Nick Rothwell, Head of Carbon at Cory, took the group through their Carbon Capture & Shipping Solution – an Energy from Waste case study. Tom shared the history of Cory before moving on to explain their operating footprint and commercial model today. Cory is aiming to be Net Zero by 2040 and they have a four pillar strategy including, Decarbonising Heat, Transport, Waste and Electricity.  Next Tom discussed their riverside campus expansion that will almost double their capacity in 2025.

Tom then discussed Cory’s CCS plans. They will capture CO2 at Riverside one & two, and are partnering with Shell and TEN, this will be transported by ship to the Humber region where it will be received by Viking CCS and stored in the southern North Sea. The biomass is already a part of the waste stream, and by capturing this they will become carbon negative.  Tom then took the group through their carbon capture process and advised they are planning to be UK’s first Liquid Carbon Dioxide Shipping Model and the challenges and opportunities this presents.

Lastly, Torsha Nag, ABB discussed ABB OPTIMAX – Decarbonisation solutions. Torsha explained the challenges in Carbon Capture, including a lot of heat and increased operational costs. Next Torsha discussed the process of Carbon Capture and optimal operation of the process. Torsha explained OPTIMAX, advanced process control, (APC) will  reduce energy costs by 5-10%, plus provide better management of influent disturbances whilst being able to track energy usage and costs via OPTIMAX energy optimisation. This includes a return on investment of less than 1 year.  Torsha is happy to talk to anyone about the specific technology, models and strategies and highlighted that the system is compatible with many automation systems.  To close, Torsha covered OPTIMAX for green hydrogen with the goal of reduced production costs and minimising capex.

Next Meeting – 28th November 2024 – for booking please contact Lisa.Buck@catchuk.org if you are interested in giving a presentation at a future event please contact Katie.Hedges@catchuk.org


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We have collaborated with a number of businesses in the Humber region  to create a video aimed at educating children about the industry’s commitment to a sustainable future. Titled ‘what is decarbonisation?’ the video explains various technologies that will help to transform their region over the coming decades, such as carbon capture, lower carbon hydrogen and biomass, emphasising their crucial roles in helping industries reduce carbon emissions and produce lower-carbon products.

The video also aims to inspire children by showcasing the diverse career opportunities available in the industry, from accountants to engineers, technicians, HR professionals, and more. Decarbonisation projects are expected to create new jobs, strengthen supply chains, and contribute to a robust economy.

The video, created by CATCH, Drax, Equinor, Harbour Energy, Phillips 66, SSE Thermal, and VPI, highlights the importance of collective action among Humber businesses in tackling climate change. By bringing together resources and expertise, these companies are not only advancing their own carbon emission reduction goals but also contributing to a larger movement towards a more sustainable future.

The Humber region presents one of the largest opportunities for industrial decarbonisation, as it is the UK’s largest industrial emitting cluster, making it essential to decarbonise if we are to achieve UK net zero goals.

Katie, Hedges, Director of Membership & Low Carbon Strategy at CATCH said:

Decarbonisation is an opportunity to inspire the next generation. By showcasing the innovative technologies and diverse career paths in our industry, we aim to empower children to envision a sustainable future and their role in it. The Humber region is at the forefront of this transformation, and together, we can achieve our net zero goals while driving economic growth and job creation.

View the video here –  https://youtu.be/hMi6Z9SFvOA


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Melanie Onn MP and Martin Vickers MP today opened the new facility at CATCH’s Skills and Apprenticeships Centre. The opening represents a significant milestone in CATCH’s commitment to fostering the green skills needed for the energy transition whilst helping to deliver economic growth locally in the Humber, Lincolnshire and Yorkshire regions.

During the visit, Melanie and Martin met students, tutors and local businesses and reiterated that skills and green jobs are at the forefront of this government’s agenda.

Following the opening, Melanie Onn, the Member of Parliament for Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes, said: “Investment in green initiatives like this is vital as we work to grow North East Lincolnshire’s economy. It’s great to see so many businesses putting funding into our area, and I look forward to seeing how things progress as the Humber Skills Plan unfolds.

This new facility is really exciting in particular. It will provide so many new opportunities for young people across the region, helping to get more of them into STEM careers.”

The expansion was made possible by a £1.5 million funding investment from sponsors in the region. These include Viking CCS members Phillips 66 Limited, Harbour Energy, Drax and ABP together with Air Products, Uniper, the ECITB and Humber Freeport.

CATCH is poised to play a pivotal role in steering more young individuals towards STEM careers, as part of the broader Humber Skills Plan to increase training output by tenfold by 2029. This latest funding initiative has had a substantial impact on its facility:

  • More than doubling the entry capacity, CATCH will increase its intake from 100 to approximately 220 apprentices.
  • Tripling the welding and grinding bay capacity to 80 bays, which have been identified as critical skill gaps needed to power the UK’s energy transition.
  • The facility has already welcomed a new cohort of apprentices this September 2024.

The project is also supporting the local businesses with all contract work executed by local specialists and within their teams, including apprentices from three different trades. The construction was completed in 53 days, amassing over 10,000 hours of work.

Following this first phase of funding, CATCH has an ambitious expansion plan to develop a new £60 million National Net Zero Training Centre by 2029, aiming to deliver education to 1,000 learners a year, targeted at the skills needed by net zero projects. The Centre will fill the skills gaps which exist in sectors such as Carbon Capture and Storage, green steel, gigafactories, and hydrogen.

David Talbot, CATCH CEO, said: “To advance the decarbonisation journey, we urgently need more pipefitters, platers, welders, and fabricators. No single company can do this alone, which is why collaboration has been key in addressing the ever-growing skills gap in these crucial trades. And this collaboration is unprecedented; no other UK cluster has come together to narrow the industrial skills gap so proactively. CATCH has always been at the forefront of industrial skills development, and this is just the beginning.”

Graeme Davies, EVP CCS at Harbour Energy, says: “The UK’s net zero goals will only be realised if we have thousands of skilled workers, from welders and pipefitters to process engineers. CATCH’s Skills and Apprenticeships Centre is a fantastic opportunity to build a strong and prosperous workforce for the future and support leading projects such as Viking CCS. We are very happy to play a leading role in this significant expansion of CATCH, helping to provide the skilled workers the major projects in the region will need in the coming years.”

Paul Fursey, Lead Executive UK and Humber Refinery General Manager says: “To build the infrastructure required to deliver net zero for the UK, we need to invest in creating the skilled workforce of tomorrow. CATCH’s new welding and fabrication training Centre will become a hub of excellence, demonstrating how the UK can increase the knowledge and skills needed to deliver the net zero targets. Through support from Phillips 66 Limited and our fellow delivery sponsors, local industry support, and local schools and colleges, we believe we can make a powerful difference to inspire the next generation of welders, pipefitters, mechanical fitters, platers, scaffolders and much more.”

Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) CEO Andrew Hockey says: “The ECITB was delighted to support CATCH as it continues to develop a pipeline of trained, skilled workers for major engineering construction projects in the Humber region. We know from our Labour Forecasting Tool (LFT) that the labour demand gap for new workers in the engineering construction industry will get wider with an estimated shortfall of 40,000 workers by 2028. Our £300,000 investment through our Regional Skills Hubs funding will support the training of more skilled workers as part of ambitious expansion plans to support the UK’s largest industrial cluster contribute to the country’s net zero goals.”


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  • Plant + Paddle partners include Target NEL, North East Lincolnshire Council, Ebb+Flo Collective, The Canoe River Cleaner and Sandringham Estate’s former Head Gardener & Learning and Engagement Coordinator
  • Created to support NELC children’s services and community engagement across Grimsby
  • Events actively encourage young people to explore the world of marine environment, habitat and biodiversity all connected to Renewable Energy
  • On and off-water activities proactively immerse children in the natural world and nurture their curiosity

Plant + Paddle will launch on August 12th at Alexandra Dock in Grimsby following a successful pilot session which took place on Friday, August 2nd.

Six children met at Projekt Renewable, where the Plant + Paddle delivery team took them through a guided paddleboarding and planting activity day. Sponsored by The Crown Estate, the concept was created to engage local children and actively encourage them to learn more about the world that the renewables sector relies on.

From the mini-ecosystems on our doorstep to marine biology and life on the water’s edge, how the natural world impacts us and how we prioritise it for the conservation of the planet are big topics – but nevertheless are topics Plant + Paddle aims to discuss. In order to make the leap from these big environmental challenges to the world of renewables, and relate it back to the day-to-day lives of the local community’s younger members, an expert team has been assembled at Projekt Renewable.

Projekt Director, Richard Askam, commented: “Talk about Avengers Assemble… We are delighted to bring Plant + Paddle to the children of Grimsby and even more delighted to have such a talented bunch of people on board to deliver it! This is really what Projekt Renewable is here for, to let children discover things they didn’t know about marine conservation, biodiversity and renewable energy by getting their hands dirty and their feet wet!”

Paddle Power

Managing the on-water side of the sessions is Toni Buckle of Ebb + Flo Collective and James Elliott aka The Canoe River Cleaner.

Toni Buckle from Cleethorpes representing Ebb + Flo Collective, said: “As soon as Projekt Director, Richard, got in touch about Plant + Paddle it piqued my interest. But it was the team that was involved, as well as the well-documented benefits of activity and blue spaces on people’s well-being and more people being able to access these, that sealed the deal for me.

“Myself and the team behind Ebb+Flo Collective CIC had long recognised that there are certain barriers preventing many individuals from accessing the sea and its benefits – financial hardship, poverty, and physical disability to name a few. Breaking down these barriers is exactly why Ebb+Flo Collective was established.

“This project is so exciting! Grimsby is a very underutilised town in terms of activity and well-being, with so much beautiful wildlife to connect to and explore. It’s an area with so much potential and hopefully, this will be the start of real change that inspires and broadens the horizon of everyone involved. It only takes a small seed for something beautiful to bloom and I hope the project lives up to this.”

James Elliott, The Canoe River Cleaner, added: “You may have seen me on my travels, cleaning our river, and leading nature-based activities to shine a positive light on the beautiful watercourse that snakes its way through our town.

“After recording a recent episode for the latest series of The Podkast, I found myself part of their upcoming Plant + Paddle project which almost sums up my dream day out! Canoeing along our river, teaching children about wildlife, and then increasing biodiversity by planting correct plants along the riverbank. There’s lots of good people about, I’m really proud to be working with some of them.”

Planting A Seed

Back on dry land, and with big thanks to Crowders of Horncastle who supplied all the planting materials and foliage at cost, it was over to Hannah Woods. Coming to Plant + Paddle from Sandringham Estate having recently moved to Lincolnshire, in her role as a Learning and Engagement Coordinator Hannah has been delivering workshops and forest school sessions to those visiting the Royal Estate. With a unique approach to learning all about our natural world, together with her husband, Martin, the former Head Gardener at Sandringham Estate, Hannah brings a wealth of experience to the team.

“I am incredibly excited to be involved with Plant + Paddle sessions with Projekt Renewable, giving children different and interesting opportunities that they might not normally get,” said Hannah. “As a qualified teacher, I know the real importance of outdoor learning which deepens nature connection and supports mental health, boosting confidence, self-esteem and improving social skills, which is what I know the Plant + Paddle event will do for the children who participate in this wonderful series of sessions.”

When it comes to onsite session management, hosting and bookings, the Projekt team is thrilled to be working with Joanne Lord, founder and CEO of Target NEL CIC (Taking Action Raising Grimsby’s Emerging Talents). Having teamed up with Joanne during the Festival of the Sea earlier this year, her positive impact is already being felt across the activity taking place at Projekt. Joanne explains how she came to be involved.

“After speaking with Richard at Projekt, it became clear that we share the same vision for our young people: to raise awareness about the future of renewable energy within our community and to connect this knowledge to their career aspirations,” said Joanne. “My work focuses on developing programs and projects that put children at the forefront, helping them see how their current interests can evolve into transferable skills for a career in this growing industry.

“When I was invited to collaborate with Projekt on the Plant + Paddle, I knew right away that I wanted to be involved. Plant + Paddle offers an exciting opportunity to introduce children and young people to activities they might not typically have access to, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.

“New projects such as this one are exciting for both us as a growing collaborative team as well as the community. The Projekt initiative helps to build strong, positive relationships with local residents while promoting the long-term goals of promoting sustainability and renewable energy opportunities locally. For the community, projects like Plant + Paddle offer children and young people access to experiences they might not otherwise have, encouraging them to explore new interests. These activities can spark curiosity, foster a sense of adventure, and develop critical life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and environmental stewardship.

“By blending hands-on activities with education, we hope to show young people that the future of energy can be both exciting and accessible, opening their eyes to the possibilities that lie ahead.”

If you’re interested in finding out more about Plant + Paddle, would like to support or sponsor the programme of events at Projekt Renewable, or would simply like more information about how your children can take part, please get in touch with the Projekt team at info@projektrenewable.com or Joanne Lord at jlord@tragetgy.co.uk


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The CATCH approach to training has always been “real world” meaning when you train at CATCH as an apprentice or an adult learner, we will replicate industrial practices as closely and safely as we can.

Our apprentices based in Stallingborough, are with us full-time for the first year of their apprenticeship, before heading into their respective companies, supported by a CATCH assessor. This first year of training cumulates with a real shut-down of the CATCH facility, in the last week of their full-time training.

The performance of our 2023-2024 cohort has been exceptional.

Using a permit and authorisation system, the EC&I apprentices have serviced, maintained and repaired every panel, motor and instrument on the tank farm and in the reactor building!

Some genuine faults were found such as:

  • Phasing motors
  • Burst diaphragms on pressure sensors
  • Non-working panel isolators
  • Incorrect overload values (on every motor)
  • Snapped wires on field bus connections
  • Inaccurate calibrations on many instruments

Our process apprentices helped prepare and isolate the plant to be ready for shutdown. They assisted in deisolation and starting the plant to test and run the processes to ensure it all functioned and operated correctly.

Our mechanical apprentices stripped down and repaired pumps and then reinstalled and laser aligned the pumps using techniques they had learnt in the classroom in a real-life situation. They also stripped down flanges and renewed gaskets and seals on pipes and valves where leaks had been reported on the plant. Next, they tested what they had done to ensure all ran correctly.

In each case, the apprentices applied themselves to the work required and made real improvements to the plant and its operation. Many of our apprentices stated how much they enjoyed the shutdown week and wanted to prolong the experience.

Thank you to all our tutors and support staff who made the shutdown such a fantastic experience for our learners.

 


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In 2023, Grimsby Community Energy (GCE) successfully raised £270,000 from a mix of large and small investors. These funds were used to install solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on two sites: CATCH, where 308kW of solar panels were installed across three buildings (over 700 panels in total), and YMCA Humber’s 1 Orwell Street, which received a 30kW solar installation. This initiative allows CATCH to benefit from affordable, clean electricity provided by GCE whenever the sun is shining, helping them advance their decarbonisation plans without any upfront cost and saving money.

Building on this success, GCE has launched their latest community share offer in 2024. Full details are available on their website. The offer is open to anyone over the age of 16, as well as businesses, which will receive public thanks on GCE’s LinkedIn and other social media platforms. The target interest rate for investors is 5%. The first project under this new offer is scheduled for October, aiming to install an additional 161kW of solar PV on two buildings at CATCH.

GCE is a community benefit society registered with the Financial Conduct Authority. Since 2016, they have been supporting local decarbonisation efforts. They own and operate solar PV systems on ten community buildings, helping organisations like E-Factor, St Andrews Hospice, and the Rock Foundation to reduce costs and carbon emissions.

Dr. Vicky Dunn, Managing Director of GCE, said, “If you care about cutting carbon emissions and want to be part of a community effort to achieve great things, consider becoming a member of Grimsby Community Energy. It’s a great local, ethical investment – our 110 members can keep in touch with the good things they have helped to fund and see the projects when they travel about town.”

Paul Snowden, Head of Operations, added, “The Grimsby Community Energy Group is a fantastic organisation for companies looking to start or continue their sustainability journey. We have benefited from their expertise and investment on-site and are very grateful for all the support. So far this year, we have generated 174 MWh, saving 33,630.35 kg of CO2 emissions. We are delighted to embark on our second project with them to install solar PV on our Scaffolding and Welding and Pipefitting Hub buildings.”

For more information on how to invest, please visit the Grimsby Community Energy website – https://grimsbycommunityenergy.coop/


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