Driving the transition to net zero
A company producing new technology to allow more on-street charging for electric vehicles has been awarded almost £500,000 from the Low Carbon Manufacturing Challenge Fund.
Innovation Minister Richard Lochhead visited the Aberdeen headquarters of Trojan Energy, which was set up by former oil and gas engineers who are using their expertise to drive the transition to net zero.
The company designs, manufactures, installs and maintains a unique flat and flush charging system which sits in the pavement and enables multiple charging points to be deployed in the street. This provides a solution to electric vehicle owners without a driveway while also keeping pavements clutter free.
The Scottish Government funding, awarded through Scottish Enterprise, will go towards a £2 million project to scale up development, research new products, and expand the company’s workforce.
Mr Lochhead said: “Trojan Energy encapsulates how we can build on the oil and gas industry’s expertise and ingenuity to transition to a clean energy future.
“Scotland is perfectly placed to lead the development of a green energy revolution with innovation the driving force behind transforming the economy and delivering a lasting improvement in Scotland’s economic performance.
“Tackling the challenges of growing Scotland’s charging network is a perfect example of how the Low Carbon Manufacturing Challenge Fund is supporting companies develop, expand or adopt technology that will help us achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2045.”
CEO of Trojan Energy Ian Mackenzie said: “The Low Carbon Manufacturing Challenge Fund has allowed us to on-shore more of our manufacturing to Scotland and to accelerate investment in R&D and technology development. The fund is a great example of the public sector working in collaboration with the private sector to anchor green jobs and green manufacturing here in Scotland.
“Scotland is committed to reaching Net Zero by 2045, just over 20 years from now, and this represents both an immense opportunity and a huge challenge, with a global race now on to attract the low carbon businesses of the future and secure the jobs and opportunities that come with Energy Transition.”
Head of Investment at Scottish Enterprise Paul Funnell said: “Trojan’s innovative solutions will enable widespread deployment of on-street charge points at a relatively low cost, tackling a real and pressing need on the journey to net zero.
“The decarbonisation of transport is among Scotland’s key economic opportunities and an area where we have the potential to be a world leader. Trojan’s unique technology means it is primed for growth and well positioned to expand into international markets.”