Construction has officially started on the £9.1 million ETZ EnergyWorks building in Tullos, Aberdeen. This innovative hub, the first of its kind in Scotland, is expected to create numerous green jobs and attract 15 tenants in its inaugural year. The goal is to foster the development and manufacturing of green energy technologies and support the rapid growth of the companies operating within the hub.
ETZ EnergyWorks, located on Hareness Road, will encompass 3,000 square meters of space, offering a combination of industrial and collaborative areas, advanced manufacturing facilities, and entrepreneurial support for businesses looking to innovate and expand. The facility is set to become operational by early autumn the following year and will serve as a central point for the innovation campus.
The hub will feature a workshop, industrial units for tenants, meeting spaces, mentoring programs, and entrepreneurial support to assist companies in their growth journey. The focus will be on nurturing innovative solutions in sectors such as offshore wind, hydrogen, and battery storage. The building itself will be powered by 100% green electricity, partially generated on-site through solar panels, and constructed using sustainable materials.
Maggie McGinlay, the Chief Executive of ETZ Ltd, emphasized the importance of supporting energy businesses and fostering innovation to establish the north-east of Scotland as the leading net-zero region in Europe. EnergyWorks aims to provide practical assistance to companies in bringing their products to market and driving the energy transition forward. With a strong focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and growth, the hub is poised to support the next generation of tech pioneers in the region.
ETZ Ltd, a collaboration between the private sector, BP, and Scottish Enterprise, with support from the UK and Scottish Governments, envisions EnergyWorks as a key component in positioning north-east Scotland as the net-zero capital of Europe. The organization has allocated funds to revitalize existing buildings and enhance infrastructure within the region, promoting sustainable development and growth.
Chris Courtney, the CEO of NMIS, highlighted the importance of maximizing supply chain opportunities in the energy transition, especially in Aberdeen with its rich history of skilled workers and expertise in the sector. By supporting entrepreneurs in bringing new technologies to market quickly, developing essential skills, and fostering innovation networks, EnergyWorks aims to drive forward the renewable energy agenda.
The UK Government, Scottish Enterprise, BP, and other partners have collectively invested in the EnergyWorks project, underscoring the significance of Aberdeen in the clean energy transition. The hub is poised to leverage the city’s engineering talent and solidify Scotland’s position as a leader in renewable technology. With construction underway and plans for a vibrant, innovative space taking shape, EnergyWorks is set to make a significant impact on the energy landscape in the region and beyond.