Northumbria University

ReNU: Unlocking cutting- edge green skills for clean growth

ReNU is a training focused programme creating a pipeline of highly skilled industry-ready doctoral graduates with outstanding problem-solving abilities to drive forward innovation in renewable and sustainable distributed energy. It is a collaboration between three major UK universities located in the North East of England. ReNU is backed by a portfolio of 44 partners including 27 companies, non-profit organisations, local government and prestigious academic institutes across the globe.

The programme combines an industry-driven doctoral training programme to meet the requirements of the next energy revolution, with strong industrial commitment through the provision of training, facilities and supervision. The established platform of research excellence in energy materials between the institutions and unique training opportunities that include internationalisation, and professional accreditation has created a transformative programme to drive forward UK innovation in renewable and sustainable distributed energy.

ReNU is creating highly skilled people with excellent scientific and engineering skills, coupled with specialist training in business, innovation and internationalisation to accelerate Net Zero.

What the Judges Thought

Impressive initiative to create a pipeline of industry-ready doctoral graduates with appropriate skills to drive forward innovation in renewable and sustainable distributed energy. This successful partnership between three universities in the North East of England has the scale, reach and potential to make a huge difference.

The project has clear evidence of a combination of research excellence, and skills training in a transformative programme to promote innovation in renewable and sustainable distributed energy in the employees of tomorrow.

What it Means to Win

‘ReNU is making a significant contribution to the global transition towards achieving net zero and a greener, more equitable future for all. This award recognises Northumbria as an inclusive provider of green energy skills and highlights our work to empower future leaders through ReNU’s innovative research, education and collaboration programme.’

Professor Andy Long, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive 

Top 3 Learnings

1. Excellence in research and development is driven by ReNU people across renewable energy solutions.
2. We engage and educate local communities to raise awareness about the benefits and practicalities of renewable energy.
3. ReNU people are able to contextualise their technology breakthroughs in the whole energy system.