Aberdeen’s Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC) has cut dozens of jobs and is preparing to relocate to a new test site in Bridge of Don as it moves towards a commercial model.
The organisation, launched in 2016 through the Aberdeen City Region Deal, is nearing the end of its ten-year £180 million public funding package, with the final tranche due in 2027.
NZTC said it is shifting focus towards paid testing services and commercial activity, including reopening a 32-metre drilling rig for use in well decommissioning, geothermal energy and carbon capture projects.
Chief executive Myrtle Dawes said “Over the past decade, NZTC has played a central role in building the UK’s net zero innovation ecosystem - supporting more than 130 start-ups, helping to commercialise over 70 technologies, and delivering real-world impact through more than 170 field trials.
“But we’ve always been clear that innovation alone isn’t the end goal. The real challenge, and opportunity, is turning that innovation into technologies that are deployed at scale.
“Our next phase will see us transition from a grant funded innovation centre to an organisation which is designed to be self-sustaining and closely aligned with where the market is going.
“In practical terms, that means that alongside our continued work with government, we are sharpening our focus on testing, validation and deployment, working hand-in-hand with industry.
“The next decade is about delivery. Our role is to connect innovation, investment and industry need, and to ensure that the technologies we’ve helped bring forward don’t just succeed in trials, but also in the field.”
A UK Government spokesperson said: “The UK Government has committed £90 million for the Net Zero Technology Centre – providing support until 2027.
“Following almost a decade of funding, the future beyond this is a decision for NZTC, and we are assured they are taking all the necessary steps to move to a commercial model.”