Powering Net Zero Together: Eclipse Power and Oriel College Join Forces in a Collaborative Energy Workshop
Connecting minds. Transforming systems. Delivering Net Zero.
In June, Eclipse Power partnered with Oriel College and the Environmental Change Institute (ECI) at the University of Oxford to host a collaborative workshop exploring the ever-critical path to net zero electricity. We brought together a diverse group of experts, policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators to tackle one of the UK’s most pressing challenges: decarbonising the electricity grid.
Setting the scene
We had managed to land the workshop right in the middle of a full-blown UK heatwave—because what better time to discuss the future of the electricity grid than in 30-degree heat, right?
…But nonetheless, the setting couldn’t have been more fitting. As the temperature rose, so did the urgency of the conversation. Our group of experts, policymakers, and innovators gathered at Oriel College, ready to roll up their (short) sleeves and tackle the big questions surrounding the UK’s energy future. Around the table were representatives from Ofgem, NESO, market investors, developers, and IDNOs, alongside lawyers—supported by invaluable insights from members of Oriel College and professors from the Environmental Change Institute at the University of Oxford.
Opening a Dialogue Across the Energy Sector
The session was designed to spark open, cross-sector discussion around the technical, regulatory, and economic barriers to net zero electricity.
Key focus areas included:
• Integrating renewable energy sources
• Ensuring grid stability
• Upgrading the UK’s ageing infrastructure
Participants were encouraged to share perspectives, challenge assumptions, and co-develop strategies that support a just and achievable energy transition.
Professor Jan Rosenow, Energy Programme Leader and Professor of Energy and Climate Policy Energy programme at the Environmental Change Institute shared that:
“The magic of this workshop was that rather than talking at the participants we asked the participants to do the talking. Cocreation is the one word I’d use to describe how it felt to be part of it and that’s exactly what we intended to achieve.”
Methodology
The workshop combined system mapping, facilitated discussion, and interactive scenario exercises, including the use of AI-generated roleplay profiles, to surface insights and produce actionable outputs.
What did we set out to achieve?
- A collaboratively developed shared system map
of the UK electricity grid and net zero ‘system’
- A legislative theatre-style exercise that brings different stakeholder views and actions into sharp focus
- A report that sets these analyses out in context
We wanted to gain key insights to directly inform policy discussions and future planning—helping to shape a more connected, resilient, and sustainable energy system for the UK. Spencer Thompson, the CEO of the Eclipse Power Group shared:
“This workshop showed the power of collaboration at its best – bringing together brilliant minds from across the sector to challenge the status quo and co-create solutions. By combining innovative thinking with real-world expertise, we can accelerate the changes needed to build a cleaner, smarter, and more resilient electricity grid. Net Zero won’t happen in isolation – it’s something we achieve together.”
What’s Next?
We’re excited to build on this collaboration, expand the outputs and keep the conversation going. We’ll be sure to share updates along the way!
About Oriel College
Established in 1326, Oriel College has been a home for learning and teaching for 700 years. The college has the distinction of being the oldest royal foundation in Oxford. Notable alumni include Sir Walter Raleigh, historian A.J.P. Taylor, and the Nobel Prize winners James Meade (Economic Sciences, 1977) and Alexander Todd (Chemistry, 1957).
About The Environmental Change Institute
The Environmental Change Institute (ECI) conducts world-class, interdisciplinary research across eight core programmes: Climate, Energy, Ecosystems, Infrastructure, Food Systems, Global Finance and Economy, Environment and Health, and Land, Society and Governance. Together, these areas reflect their commitment to understanding and addressing the complex challenges of environmental change.
About the Eclipse Power Group
We’re an innovative, forward-thinking provider of energy solutions—offering everything from feasibility assessments to project design, grid connection, and beyond. The Eclipse Power Group’s specialist business units deliver end-to-end grid services, supporting clients across Great Britain’s evolving energy landscape.
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