Affordable and Clean Energy

Since its launch in 2020, Uswitch’s Green Universities Report has consistently ranked Manchester Met University among the top institutions that are leading the way in terms of green initiatives and the steps they are taking to reduce their footprint.  The University was rated Gold in their 2023 annual report, which is reserved for excellent-performing universities, for its green initiatives and renewable energy.

The North West Net Zero Skills Charter, which is designed by Manchester Metropolitan University and its partners, will help businesses to ensure new net zero opportunities can be harnessed for the benefit of communities and people across the region. The Charter, which was launched in November 2022, uses a net zero lens to articulate the skills and capabilities that are most important for businesses seeking to recruit new workers.

Manchester Fuel Cell Innovation Centre(MFCIC)is the landmark £4.1m state-of-the-art laboratories, leading the way in harnessing renewable energy. The Centre is exploring the pure science of the fuel cell itself, driving engagement with industry on a local, national and international scale, and developing the technology talent of tomorrow. By December 2021, MFCIC had supported over 80 SMEs under its business support programme, with each organisation supported by researchers working within the enhanced facility. 

MFCIC is also playing a key role in the installation of Greater Manchester’s first low-carbon hydrogen fuel hub, meaning sustainable hydrogen fuel can be produced at scale in the region for the first time. The scheme – Trafford Green Hydrogen, which was granted planning permission in October 2022 – is the largest consented green hydrogen scheme in the UK and the new facilities will have the capacity to generate 200 megawatts of renewable energy through the production and storage of hydrogen.This will help to create greater energy security in Greater Manchester, more jobs in the area and opportunities for businesses to make Net Zero plans with hydrogen in mind.

In addition, MFCIC is part of the Hydrogen In Schools (HySchools) project, which is an Erasmus+ project that aims to deliver hydrogen education in schools. Educational and online resources have been created for use in secondary schools across European partner countries, aimed at providing teachers with increased confidence to teach students about Hydrogen Fuel Cell Technology (HFCT).