The story of a near decade-long journey of ambition, partnership and investment as Northumberland builds a leading destination for clean energy, innovation and skills development.
When I look back at the journey of Energy Central, what strikes me most is how far we have come in a relatively short space of time. What began as a shared ambition between partners determined to maximise the opportunities presented by the energy sector has evolved into something much bigger: a recognised investment destination, a growing industry cluster, and increasingly, a centre for developing the skilled workforce needed for the future.
At the outset, Energy Central was founded on a simple but powerful principle. By working together and collaborating as partners we knew we could create the conditions for growth in one of the UK's most important energy regions. Northumberland County Council, Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult, Advance Northumberland and Port of Blyth, united to form a partnership that would power the next generation of energy focused investment in Northumberland. We recognised that the energy transition would create huge opportunities, but only if we were prepared to collaborate, plan and invest in the ecosystem.
The early focus was on establishing Energy Central as a place where businesses could invest and grow. Building a strong proposition meant showcasing the unique strengths of Northumberland's strengths in offshore wind and renewable energy: premier deep-water port facilities at Port of Blyth, proximity to offshore energy assets such as Dogger Bank, UK leading testing, validation and R&D at ORE Catapult and an established industrial heritage alongside a growing supply chain ready to support the energy sector. Through a shared commitment from partners, we were able to build a compelling story that attracted attention from investors and businesses looking for opportunities within the rapidly expanding offshore wind and clean energy markets.
One of the most visible examples of this success has been JDR Cable Systems' continued investment in the region. The development of its new subsea cable manufacturing facility in Cambois, Northumberland represents a significant milestone, not only for the company but for the wider Energy Central cluster. The facility demonstrates the confidence that leading international businesses have in the area and reinforces our position within the offshore energy supply chain. Beyond the buildings themselves, the investment is creating jobs, generating opportunities for local businesses and strengthening the foundations of the wider cluster.
As investment has grown, so too has our understanding that success is about more than attracting businesses. A thriving energy sector needs a pipeline of skilled people capable of meeting industry demands both now and in the future. This realisation has shaped the next phase of Energy Central's development.
The creation of Energy Central Campus, comprising the Energy Central Learning Hub and the Energy Central Institute, marks an important evolution in our approach to skills development. Rather than simply responding to workforce shortages, we are working proactively with employers, schools, colleges and training providers to build a talent pipeline that reflects the current and future needs of the energy sector. The focus is on creating clear pathways into energy careers, supporting lifelong learning, and ensuring local people can access the opportunities being created on their doorstep.
Together, the two facilities provide a comprehensive skills pathway for the clean energy sector. The Energy Central Learning Hub delivers vocational and technical education, training and apprenticeships up to Level 3, while the Energy Central Institute supports higher-level skills development, research and innovation through degree-level study and beyond. This end-to-end approach will help develop the skilled workforce needed to drive the region's clean energy ambitions.
What excites me most is the way these initiatives connect education directly with industry. By bringing employers into the conversation, we can ensure training is relevant, practical and aligned with emerging technologies and future workforce requirements. This helps businesses access the skills they need while providing individuals with rewarding careers in a sector that is helping shape the future of energy.
Today, Energy Central is about much more than a collection of sites or investment opportunities. It has become an ecosystem. Businesses, educators, public sector partners and communities are working together towards a common goal: creating sustainable economic growth through the energy sector.
The journey is far from over. As Energy Central continues to grow, we are ready to welcome new businesses to Northumberland and invite them to be part of our next chapter. With strategically located quay-linked development sites benefiting from Investment Zone status, a rapidly expanding AI and digital cluster within the Government-designated AI Growth Zone, and world-class research and development capabilities at ORE Catapult, including the DARE Centre, Technology Development Centre and forthcoming cable testing facility, the foundations for growth have never been stronger.
There has never been a better time to invest in this thriving clean energy cluster. New opportunities continue to emerge, the ecosystem continues to expand, and demand for skilled talent is set to grow for decades to come. If the Energy Central story demonstrates anything, it is the power of collaboration. By bringing together industry, education, innovation and investment, we are creating far more than an energy cluster.
We are building a globally competitive centre of excellence and a lasting economic legacy for Northumberland and the wider North East.
With Offshore Wind North East less than a month away, come and visit the team on Stand E02 and learn more about the opportunities that exist within the cluster to develop, grow and expand your business.
Blog by Michael Harriott - Senior Business Growth and Investment Manager at Business Northumberland
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