DNV invests in Spadeadam facility to de-risk hydrogen, CCS, and energy transition technologies

DNV invests in Spadeadam facility to de-risk hydrogen, CCS, and energy transition technologies

(IN BRIEF) DNV has upgraded its Spadeadam Research and Development Facility in Cumbria to support the safe scaling of energy transition technologies, including hydrogen and carbon capture. The investment enhances the site with interactive capabilities such as 4k streaming, advanced AV spaces, and a large lecture hall, providing a platform for international collaboration. The facility will enable rigorous testing, simulation of real-world risks, and workforce training, helping industry and regulators co-develop safe and reliable solutions. Hosting projects such as Skylark, which is advancing CO₂ pipeline safety, Spadeadam is positioned to play a central role in reducing risks, improving standards, and equipping the sector to achieve net zero.

(PRESS RELEASE) BÆRUM, 3-Sep-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — DNV has made a major investment to upgrade its Spadeadam Research and Development Facility in Cumbria, UK, reinforcing its commitment to de-risking energy transition technologies and creating a collaborative environment for industry, regulators, and technology providers. The enhanced site will provide a platform for testing, simulation, and training that supports the development of hydrogen, carbon capture and storage (CCS), and other innovations essential for achieving net zero.

The Spadeadam facility, which has been conducting large-scale safety research for over 45 years on an RAF base, is now equipped with advanced interactive technologies, including 4k live streaming that enables global audiences to view demonstrations in real time. Alongside this, it offers a 200-seat lecture hall, modern AV-equipped meeting spaces, and hospitality services designed to host international collaboration.

Hari Vamadevan, Senior Vice President and Regional Director, UK & Ireland, Energy Systems at DNV, stressed the urgency of the initiative: “As the global energy system evolves, balancing conventional expertise with the demands of the transition is critical. Our Energy Transition Outlook shows that peak energy emissions have already passed, but the decline is too slow for climate goals. That is why collaboration and decisive action are so important now.”

He added: “Spadeadam provides a unique and controlled environment where we can rigorously test technologies, replicate real-world risks, and share lessons across the industry. This investment is about more than infrastructure – it is about people, knowledge, and the partnerships that will enable a Just Transition.”

The site also hosts the Skylark joint industry project, which is advancing CO₂ pipeline safety standards, and contributes to improved safety protocols for hydrogen infrastructure and CCS deployment. Training remains a vital part of Spadeadam’s mission, with immersive courses that simulate real-world scenarios, from hydrogen leak response to offshore wind safety, helping to prepare the workforce for the challenges of the energy transition.

Through the combination of cutting-edge facilities, research expertise, and specialized training, DNV aims to give the sector the confidence and tools needed to deliver a safer, cleaner, and more sustainable energy future.

About DNV
DNV is an independent assurance and risk management provider, operating in more than 100 countries. Through its broad experience and deep expertise DNV advances safety and sustainable performance, sets industry standards, and inspires and invents solutions.

Whether assessing a new ship design, qualifying technology for a floating wind farm, analyzing sensor data from a gas pipeline or certifying a food company’s supply chain, DNV enables its customers and their stakeholders to manage technological and regulatory complexity with confidence.

Driven by its purpose, to safeguard life, property, and the environment, DNV helps its customers seize opportunities and tackle the risks arising from global transformations. DNV is a trusted voice for many of the world’s most successful and forward-thinking companies.

In the energy industry
DNV provides assurance to the entire energy value chain through its advisory, monitoring, verification, and certification services.  As the world’s leading resource of independent energy experts and technical advisors, the assurance provider helps industries and governments to navigate the many complex, interrelated transitions taking place globally and regionally, in the energy industry. DNV is committed to realizing the goals of the Paris Agreement, and supports customers to transition faster to a deeply decarbonized energy system.

Media contact:

Neil James Slater
Head of Media Relations, Energy Systems
Phone: +442038165702
contact.energysystems@dnv.com

Penda Sall
Media Relations Advisor
contact.energysystems@dnv.com

SOURCE: DNV