The Dorset Clean Energy Super Cluster (DCESC) took a significant step forward in advancing its five Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) with a visit from the National Energy System Operator (NESO). This visit, hosted at Portland Port, demonstrated the region’s commitment to delivering transformative clean energy projects that align with the UK’s energy security and net-zero goals.
The delegation included Jeremy Bush, Regional Energy Strategic Planning Lead for the South West at NESO, who joined representatives from Source Galileo, Portland Port & Harbour Authority, Dorset Council, Morwind, and DCESC Project Director Claire Pearce. The visit provided an opportunity to showcase the deep-water port facilities at Portland and highlight the potential for clean energy infrastructure projects. This engagement comes ahead of NESO’s Strategic Investment Request for Information (RFI), which closes at the end of the month.
Garrett Morrison of Source Galileo, who is leading the interface with NESO, described the visit as a positive fact-finding mission. He emphasised the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving the cluster’s energy ambitions. The DCESC team, in partnership with Dorset Council, is preparing strategic investment opportunities to submit to NESO, ensuring Dorset’s projects are included in national and regional energy plans.
Claire Pearce, Project Director for DCESC, highlighted the scale of the opportunity, stating that the cluster represents a £28 billion investment potential, with over £20 billion ready to deploy from private investors. These projects are expected to create thousands of jobs over the next three to ten years, driving economic growth and innovation in the region. However, realising this vision requires alignment across government and institutions to remove barriers and accelerate delivery.
Pearce added, “Engaging directly with NESO was invaluable in communicating the potential of Dorset’s clean energy projects. These initiatives will not only strengthen the UK’s energy security and resilience but also advance the delivery of clean power by 2030 and net-zero by 2047.”
The visit underscores the importance of collaboration and proactive engagement in unlocking Dorset’s clean energy potential. With its strategic location, deep-water port facilities, and strong public-private partnerships, the Dorset Clean Energy Super Cluster is well-positioned to lead the way in delivering sustainable energy solutions for the UK.