A new mobile education centre, the 'Net Zero Challenge' vehicle, has been unveiled in Aberdeen to inspire young people about the energy transition and the careers of the future.

Founded by ETZ Ltd, Shell UK, and North East Scotland College (NESCol), the project is backed by the Scottish Government's Just Transition Fund and aims to reach 25,000 pupils across the region.

The vehicle, designed in partnership with Glasgow Science Centre, will travel to over 30 schools across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire, engaging students with interactive exhibits on wind, solar, carbon capture, and other key aspects of the energy transition.

"Ensuring a pipeline of expertise and talent will be key to unlocking Scotland's energy transition and securing the highly skilled workforce of the future," said Acting Net Zero and Energy Secretary Gillian Martin. "That is why the Scottish Government is committed to supporting our existing workforce alongside fostering the skills of our next generation of industry leaders."

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The Net Zero Challenge vehicle complements the Energy Transition Skills Hub, a £7 million initiative backed by the Scottish Government, Shell, ETZ Ltd, and NESCol, which is due to open in Aberdeen later this year. The Hub will provide workshops, flexible teaching spaces, and cutting-edge equipment to equip students with the skills needed for a low-carbon energy future.

“This project will be accessible to students right across the region, driving home the exciting careers this sector has to offer and its part in delivering the energy transition,” said Maggie McGinlay, CEO of ETZ Ltd.

Neil Cowie, Principal and Chief Executive of NESCol, emphasised the importance of engaging young people with the energy transition. "It's vital that we shine a light on the array of exciting and rewarding opportunities in the energy sector now and coming over the horizon, engaging with pupils in a way that brings that to life," he said.

Simon Roddy, Senior Vice President Upstream of Shell UK, highlighted the importance of investing in the future workforce. "The education outreach vehicle will play an important role in inspiring young people in the North East to consider careers in energy; helping ensure we have a workforce that is equipped with the knowledge and expertise needed for both the energy we continue to need today and a successful transition to net zero," he said.