DNV announces major investment in Spadeadam Research and Development Facility
Upgrades to help de-risk energy transition technologies
DNV has invested significantly to upgrade its Spadeadam Research and Development Facility to support the de-risking of the energy transition.
As well as reinforcing its commitment to accelerating collaboration and innovation across the energy sector, the investment in the state-of-the-art facility in Cumbria, England will help DNV demonstrate the safety of technologies that will underpin the push to net zero, not just for UK-based companies but international organizations also.
The facility has been built with interactivity and technological advancement at its heart. This immersive technology includes 4k streaming capability, allowing people all over the world to feel part of the action by watching demos happen in real time. Technology is combined with function as the facility boasts state-of-the-art AV equipped rooms and a 200-seater lecture hall all complimented by first-class onsite hospitality.
For more than 45 years, Spadeadam, which is located on a RAF base, has conducted large-scale research to assess the consequences of major hazards and their effects on people and properties.
DNV’s latest investment in the site will create a shared space where operators, regulators and technology providers can come together to co-develop solutions that support a safer, cleaner energy future.
By combining conventional oil and gas expertise with emerging technologies such as hydrogen and carbon capture and storage (CCS) the facility will continue to contribute to a safer world by improving understanding of major hazards across industries.
Hari Vamadevan, Senior Vice President and Regional Director, UK & Ireland, Energy Systems at DNV, said: “As the global energy landscape continues its evolution, balancing traditional energy expertise with sustainable transition pathways is more critical than ever.
“Our latest Energy Transition Outlook shows that although peak energy emissions have already passed, the decline that follows is too slow to put us on track for global climate goals. That is why action, and particularly collaboration, is so important right now.”
Mr Vamadevan added: “Spadeadam is a unique space that brings the industry together in a controlled environment where we can rigorously test new technologies, simulate real-world risks, and share the lessons learned. By providing a space like this, we are ensuring the workforce is prepared for the challenges ahead. This investment also is in people, knowledge, and the partnerships that will enable a Just Transition. Our goal is simple - to give the sector the tools and confidence it needs to deliver a safer, cleaner, and more sustainable energy future – but we can only achieve it by working together.”
The facility is also hosting DNV’s landmark ‘Skylark’ joint industry project, which is advancing safety standards in CO₂ pipeline operations. These collaborations are delivering tangible improvements in safety systems and risk mitigation strategies for hydrogen infrastructure and CCS deployment.
The research and development that takes place at the facility is complimented by world-class training that also takes place onsite. These immersive courses simulate real-world scenarios, helping participants understand and mitigate risks in high-pressure environments. From hydrogen leak simulations to offshore wind safety protocols, the training is tailored to meet the evolving needs of the sector, salient for both national and international customers.
Visitors to Offshore Europe can engage with DNV experts at Stand 2L60, where the company will showcase how its integrated approach to risk management is helping to build confidence in the energy transition.