The environmental technologies sector in Yorkshire & Humber offers your business access to the latest advances in clean technology and is attracting global companies with our cutting-edge innovation in alternative energy, bio fuels, wind power, fuel cells and water & waste treatment.
The environmental technologies sector in the region encompasses the following key sectors.
Wind power
With half of the UK’s developable wind coming from the Humber, the region offers your business considerable market opportunities and extensive wind power expertise. Two sites currently under construction will provide power for 140,000 homes and reduce CO2 emissions by half a million tonnes a year.
Biofuels
Increased global focus on addressing climate change and related government policy offer significant growth opportunities in the region’s biofuels sector. Your business can benefit from the close proximity of Yorkshire and Humber’s chemical and petrochemical industries. The region’s large agricultural areas also enable you to produce more biomass than any other location in the UK.
Fuel cells
The region is recognised for its leading work in the development of fuel cells. The region’s clean energy support incubator LIFE, provides you with advice on how to maximise the commercial opportunities for fuel cell technology, and has already supported local companies on multi-million pound flotations on the Alternative Energy Market.
Glass manufacturing and reprocessing
Yorkshire and Humber is responsible for approximately 50% of the UK’s glass manufacturing capacity. Ten plants have a combined capacity to produce over 1.5m tonnes per annum. An established processing and recycling hub ensure the region is also the largest supplier of recycled glass in the UK – offering international expertise in glass technology and reprocessing.
Water and waste treatment
The region is home to both reed bed technology and water based anaerobic systems that make use of naturally occurring bacteria and algae. Local companies can benefit from award-winning designs and considerable civil engineering expertise. A network of university supported research facilities drive innovation in the field and stimulate growth.
Clean coal technologies
With numerous businesses working in the energy sector, the Yorkshire and Humber region generates 17% of the UK’s electricity and 23% of the oil refinery products. Building on the region’s strong engineering base, there is a significant cluster of equipment suppliers to the traditional oil and gas industry. Regional utility companies are also actively working on new projects in CO2 reduction and biomass fuel – allowing you to make use of extensive facilities and experience.