The Solent Cluster welcomes Havant Borough Council as new member

The Solent Cluster, which aims to make the region a leading centre for low carbon investment, has seen its membership bolstered, with Havant Borough Council joining the collaboration.

At a full council meeting, members agreed to join the more than 80 members from private, public and non-governmental organisations.

READ MORE: The Solent Cluster hires new Project Manager

The cluster allows organisations to bid for government investment support for projects - for example to introduce sustainable fuels for local transport, create low carbon energy to heat homes, businesses and public buildings, and to increase job opportunities.

Anne-Marie Mountifield, the chair of the Solent Cluster, said: "Decarbonisation is at the heart of our economic strategy for the area.

"The Solent Cluster provides a platform for the excellent work that is already taking place and it has a unique opportunity to affect real change in energy production and consumption, establishing the Solent and wider region as a leading centre for low carbon investment now and in the future.

"We welcome Havant Borough Council as a member look forward to working with the team to develop a compelling project."

Cllr Elizabeth Lloyd, cabinet lead for planning, environment and water quality, added: "I am pleased that all Havant Borough councillors from all parties have recognised the importance of climate change and how The Solent Cluster can assist not just Havant but the whole of the region.

"Working with others, not just other public sector bodies but also businesses and educational sectors, will be key to achieving the best outcomes for the future."

The regional partnership is the first major de-carbonisation initiative that would substantially reduce CO2 emissions from industry, transport and households across the Solent and Southern England.

It will also support the council's climate change and environment strategy, adopted in September 2021, said Havant Borough Council.

The Solent Cluster's members include international energy producers with proven expertise in CCS and hydrogen technology, global manufacturers and engineering companies, regional businesses and industries, energy providers, leading logistics and infrastructure operators, academic institutions and public sector organisations.

In March this year, it was announced that the Solent Cluster had appointed Zoë Colbeck as project manager.

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