South Western and South Wales

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The South Western and South Wales Community represents a region that covers quite a large geographical area which deploys and hosts a large diversity of energy technologies, industries and experts. There are a large number of academic institutions included and represented in the area and we provide connections between all areas of the industry and relevant academic institutions. Though geographically disparate, we aim to create opportunities to connect in person and through online events. We provide a broad mix of learning and sharing events to meet the needs of our local members.

As a Chartered Energy Engineer and EI Member who has benefited from knowledge sharing and the support and guidance of others in shaping my career, I would like to welcome all regional members to engage with the regional group such that it supports and represents their needs and enables them to stay connected with the EI and other local members. We really do want to know how we can assist to make your career in the industry more fulfilling and impactful.

Upcoming events and EI resources

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Workforce shortfall threatens UK government’s Warm Homes Plan, trade body warns

15/6/2026

The UK government announced its £15bn Warm Homes Plan in January 2026 to lower energy bills, reduce fossil fuel reliance and attract £38bn of total investment over four years. However, it is not clear that there are enough workers to be able to deliver this plan, according to trade association Energy UK. It notes that fewer people are entering the sector than are nearing retirement. Two-thirds of heating and cooling installers are over 45, so many will retire between 2030 and 2035. The association warns that a workforce shortfall could delay the rollout of energy efficiency measures and low-carbon heating technologies.

New gas-peaker plants highlight changing role of gas on UK grid

9/6/2026

New gas-fired power plants continue to be developed in the UK even as gas loses market share to renewables, reflecting the fuel’s evolution from continuous to peaker role supporting an electricity system increasingly dominated by wind and solar generation.

UK energy transition supports 1.1 million jobs and contributes £105bn

9/6/2026

Industries supporting the UK economy’s decarbonisation now support 1.1 million jobs and generate £105bn of economic value each year, according to new analysis commissioned by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU).

Past events highlights

Take a look back at some of our recent community and EI-wide events in South Western and South Wales.

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Technical talk and site tour at Kiwa’s hydrogen facility – April 2025

Bishops Cleeve, Gloucestershire

This event offered a fantastic opportunity to gain insights into local hydrogen production, distribution, and use, with a talk from Dr Leighton Holyfield on the facility’s purpose and future directions. Attendees also had a tour of Kiwa’s hydrogen site and testing laboratories, providing a unique end-to-end view of their capabilities.

South Western and South Wales Community AGM and talk – June 2025

Narrow Quay, Bristol

The hybrid event featured a guest talk by Dr Robert Cooke, Director at Buro Happold and a leading Chartered Energy Engineer, who shared insights from over 20 years in sustainable engineering. This was followed by the AGM. It provided an excellent opportunity to get involved, network, and connect with professionals across the energy sector.

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Technical talk and site tour at Kiwa’s hydrogen facility – April 2025

Bishops Cleeve, Gloucestershire

This event offered a fantastic opportunity to gain insights into local hydrogen production, distribution, and use, with a talk from Dr Leighton Holyfield on the facility’s purpose and future directions. Attendees also had a tour of Kiwa’s hydrogen site and testing laboratories, providing a unique end-to-end view of their capabilities.