Researchers at the Durham Energy Institute have been awarded a £1.84m grant to lead a consortium of university and industry partners in developing virtual power plant technologies. The new funding is part of UK Research and Innovation’s (UKRI) £13 million investment to fund 13 projects to help the UK meet its Net Zero targets.

New research from some of our leading energy experts has shown that the UK sits on underground heat capable of providing sustainable, carbon-neutral heating and cooling for large areas of the nation.

Congratulations to Dr Barbara Vest OBE who has been appointed as a Professor in Practice at the Durham Energy Institute, commencing on 1st June 2023 for three years.

Following the publication of the UK Government plans for "Powering-up Britain", we analyse the five strategic measures designed to enhance the UK's energy security, seize the economic opportunities of the transition, and deliver the UK's net zero commitments.

Our Durham Energy Institute researchers are part of an international team that has identified hidden natural helium gas fields.

A White Paper launched today identifies that the use of thermal energy storage in industrial processes could reduce carbon emissions across Europe by as much as 513Mt per year.

Researchers at Durham University and Teesside University have secured £11million to accelerate the use of hydrogen in the Teesside Industrial Cluster

The UK Government decision to lift the moratorium on UK fracking in England has sent shock waves through the energy industry. The decision forms part of the UK Government’s measures to strengthen the UK energy security and desire to be a net energy exporter by 2040. Nicola Sturgeon, First Minister for Scotland has stated that there will be no fracking in Scotland despite the decision in England.

We are delighted to announce that Maggie Bosanquet has received an honorary Doctor of Science degree from Durham University, recognising her significant contribution to environmental sustainability and low carbon initiatives. Maggie has been instrumental in establishing and building links between the Durham Energy Institute and Durham County Council to deliver low carbon energy solutions in County Durham.

Helen will draw on her experience to undertake an inaugural guest lecture which will form part of our new student-focussed seminar series. She will work closely with us to develop our research and links to external partners. Working with Helen, we will also develop a new taught postgraduate programme.

Durham Energy Institute researchers are part of an international collaboration that has developed a novel technique to observe the activity of the ocean close to underwater tunnels in tsunami prone regions.

A new Durham University partnership with Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham (Amrita University) will support key foundation industries in India and the UK to decarbonise using the latest thermal energy innovations.