Business and Energy Minister makes Tees Valley visit

Tees Valley Unlimited has hosted Business and Energy Minister, Michael Fallon MP, on a tour of the region’s businesses.

Mr Fallon visited the UK’s largest advanced gasification energy-from-waste plant and a leading safety training facility in Billingham.

Business and Energy Minister Michael Fallon said: “It has been very encouraging to witness first-hand the economic progress within Tees Valley and how companies in the area are at the forefront of emerging technologies and markets.

“What I have seen today is a clear sign that when Government and business work in partnership, Tees Valley firms have the ambition, talent and ability to succeed.

“We are committed to helping industry grow and prosper right across the UK, with targeted schemes such as Enterprise Zones and the Regional Growth Fund.”

The energy-from-waste plant is being built by US firm Air Products, on the Tees Valley Enterprise Zone.

It will provide enough reliable, controllable and renewable electricity to power the equivalent of 50,000 homes.

Stephen Catchpole, TVU managing director, said: “Hosting a visit to Tees Valley by the Business and Energy Minister has allowed us to showcase the type of internationally-renowned, innovative and ambitious companies that we are attracting to our Enterprise Zone.

“We also were able to demonstrate how the area is taking advantage of opportunities from emerging sectors, how activities that will create a high value, low carbon economy are being co-ordinated and how we are working with a range of partners and stakeholders to create a diverse economic base.

“Government support is making a significant difference to our ability to deliver growth and prosperity in Tees Valley.”

The Minister also took part in briefings with Energi Coast, the North East of England’s Renewable Group; Tees Valley Carbon Capture and Storage network; and the North East Chamber of Commerce.

James Ramsbotham, NECC chief executive, said: “It is important that businesses in the region are able to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing them to influential Government representatives as well as highlight the contribution that the area is able to make to the country’s economic wellbeing.”

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →