Peter Mandelson announces world-class biofuel centre

On 27 November, secretary of state for business, innovation and skills Peter Mandelson announced a new joint initiative between BP and DuPont, which will place the UK at the forefront of progress in next-generation biofuels. The two companies will work together to create a £25m development & demonstration facility at Saltend, near Hull.

Who’s behind the initiative?

Energy giant BP has joined forces with DuPont, a sustainable-science solutions company, to form Kingston Research Ltd, which will focus on the commercialisation of advanced biofuel technology. They have worked closely with Yorkshire Forward and UK Trade & Investment, with the assistance of British Ambassador Sir Nigel Sheinwald in the United States

What are ‘biofuels’?

These are liquid fuels derived from plant materials. Kingston Research will be demonstrating biobutanol, a new lower-carbon fuel which can be made from the same crops as bioethanol and which can be blended into petrol at higher levels. This means that biofuels can be introduced more quickly. In the future, it will be possible to convert bioethanol refineries to produce biobutanol, allowing biofuels to make an even larger contribution to meeting the world’s energy needs. 

Where will this centre be situated?

The £25m purpose-built development will be at BP’s Saltend site, near Hull. The site is also home to Vivergo Fuels, a joint venture between BP, British Sugar and DuPont. Vivergo is constructing a world-scale bioethanol facility that will begin producing bioethanol in 2010 and will play a major role in meeting the UK’s requirements for biofuels. Vivergo will employ approximately 70 people when operational.

What benefits will this new centre bring to our region?

This cutting-edge technology development centre will help to grow both the region’s and the UK’s economy. It will enhance our reputation as a world-class centre for innovation and research, emphasising our ability to attract crucial research and development operations and placing the UK at the forefront of next-generation biofuel development. In addition, 27 jobs will be created in the region.

Why is Yorkshire Forward involved with this initiative?

This is an superb example of the close relationship between British and American business, and demonstrates the confidence investors have in the UK workforce. Attracting significant inward investments such as this creates jobs and helps to boost the region’s economy. In addition, Yorkshire Forward has made environmental technologies a priority for our region. Yorkshire & Humber is particularly ambitious about reducing its carbon footprint and investing in renewable resources.