The North as an Energy Investment Powerhouse: Scaling Opportunity, Fast – Clean Energy UK Write Up

How can the North position itself as a global magnet for green investment?  

With rich industrial roots, world-class clean energy assets and a rapidly evolving innovation ecosystem, the region has the ingredients to scale opportunity at pace, strengthening local supply chains, attracting global capital and driving the UK’s levelling up agenda forward. 

Opening Remarks 

Chaired by Amy Wanless, Corporate Partner and Head of Energy at commercial law firm and B Corp Square One Law LLP, the session opened with her reflection on the significance of the room itself: a space filled with industry, policy and investment leaders who all play a role in shaping the North’s clean energy future.  

Amy spoke about her passion for supporting a greener introduction, before inviting the speakers to introduce themselves.

Panel Introductions  

First to introduce themselves was Richard Bond, Innovation and Services Director at the Mining Remediation Authority, who explained that the organisation owns and operates coal reserves on behalf of the PLC.  

Historically, these assets were viewed as a problem to be managed, but they are now being considered as part of the North’s emerging carbon and heat infrastructure. 

Next up was Umberto Bizzaro, Market Manager for Sustainable Energy at Tensar (CMC). He outlined his experience across offshore energy, battery storage, nuclear, CCUS and supply chain development. He also explained how he contributes to major trade bodies, such as RenewableUK’s Shadow Board. 

The final introduction was Neil Spann, CEO of PowerRoll, who described his background in renewable energy efficiency and the development of next-generation solar technologies. He highlights that PowerRoll’s headquarters are in Durham, on the site of the former Hawthorn mine – a location that reflects both legacy and future opportunity in the transition. 

The Challenge of Funding Innovation 

Amy opened the discussion by asking Neil about his funding journey. Neil explained that developing new technology demands significant investment. PowerRoll has raised £35 million so far, including Innovate UK support and regional funds, but he noted the reality of competing internationally for capital. 

He outlined the business’s progressions from seed and angel funding to larger rounds and highlighted the challenges of operating at Technology Readiness Levels (TLR’s) 6 to 8, where commercialisation begins but risks remain high. Venture capital has become more cautious, with many funds prioritising existing portfolios or favouring AI. 

This shift has created real constraints for clean energy scale-ups across the UK. 

Transitioning Coal Infrastructure into Clean Heat 

Amy then turned to Richard to explore the Mining Remediation Authority’s role in the transition. Richard described the organisation’s evolution from safeguarding coal infrastructure to unlocking new opportunities such as mine water heat; a resource backed by decades of hydrological and geological data and research. 

He highlighted the need for reskilling, especially in drilling and retrofit trades, and pointed to existing training hubs that support this. Mine water heat projects are already in progress across the UK, including residential heat networks in Gateshead. Richard also added that the sector must become less risk-averse and work more collaboratively with government and private partners to accelerate progress. 

The Strengths and Strains of the UK Supply Chain 

Amy then invited Umberto to reflect on the supply chain landscape. He emphasised that the UK has repeatedly demonstrated its capability to deliver major clean energy projects, with companies like Siemens providing strong regional benchmarks. 

However, he stressed that supply chain resilience requires certainty. While near-term visibility exists through government-backed contracts and accelerated programmes, clarity beyond 2030 is still limited. Combined with historic manufacturing decline, Brexit disruption and high energy costs, this lack of certainty risks slowing investment. 

The Role of Policy 

As the conversation progressed onto the role of policymakers, Umberto explained that investors ultimately want clarity on return on investments (ROI), planning timelines, grid charges and market frameworks. He also encouraged stronger collaboration between national and local government to ensure decision-makers understand sector needs and the limitations of under-resourced planning authorities. 

He urged the industry to “think nationally, act locally” and highlighted the importance of making the UK an attractive and predictable market for long-term capital.  

Re-engaging Communities 

Returning to Richard, Amy asked how community buy-in shapes the authority’s work. Richard commented that communities must feel part of the opportunity and understand the long-term benefits. Future projects will increasingly rely on social and sustainability capital, and education is essential in this development. 

He also noted that embracing risk is a necessary part of progress and that the North is on the brink of something transformational. 

Why the North is Uniquely Positioned 

To close the session, Amy invited Neil to share why the North stands out for clean energy investment. Neil spoke about the region’s unique assets, including access to the North Sea, historic mining infrastructure, hydrogen hubs, manufacturing strength and a highly skilled workforce. He emphasised that collective action will be crucial to turning these strengths into long-term jobs, economic growth and world-leading green industries. 

Final Reflections 

Amy concluded the session by encouraging individuals in the room to think bigger, skill faster and continue pushing forward. She said collaboration and ambition would be what defines the North’s role in delivering the UK’s clean energy transition. 

Clean Energy UK 2026 will be happening in Newcastle on 19th November 2026. You can enquire to get involved now by emailing enquiries@thesustainabilitycommunity.com