A ‘state-of-the-art’ Energy Transition Skills Hub, supported by Shell UK, has been officially opened at Pembrokeshire College in Haverfordwest.

Through an immersive and interactive learning experience, the hub will focus on providing the skills and knowledge to find employment in energy projects.

During the opening Anthony Harte, Head of Social Impact, Shell UK commented: “This is part of our ambition to support 15,000 people into jobs with a focus on the energy transition by 2035. It is the latest important step to ensure the energy transition is an opportunity for everyone.”

Shell Hub opening
More than 50 representatives from local industry joined Anthony Harte (Head of Social Impact for Shell UK), Paul Davies (MS), Sam Kurtz (MS), Simon Ames (Managing Director Dragon LNG and Dragon Energy), and College and Dragon LNG apprentice Kelly Williams, as they officially opened the Hub. (Pembrokeshire College)

The hub aims to train 600 individuals by July 2026, providing Pembrokeshire and West Wales with a pool of talent suitable for offshore floating wind farms and hydrogen power plants.

Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens said: “Pembrokeshire has an important part to play in achieving our mission for clean energy by 2030.”

Kelly Williams brought the learner perspective to the opening: “Today, having toured this incredible new process control simulator, and experimented with the software, I can’t help but feel excited about the future. This facility is truly state-of-the-art, and it’s going to further elevate an already outstanding programme in the energy sector. I can’t wait to make the most of this space as I continue to learn and grow in my field.

College Principal Dr Barry Walters said: “We would like to thank Shell UK, Dragon LNG, the Swansea Bay City Deal Skills and Talent Fund and City and Guilds along with industry partners and local Members of the Senedd, Paul Davies and Sam Kurtz for supporting this important facility.”

Local MS and Shadow Minister for Economy and Energy Sam Kurtz added: “The opportunities offered to students by the Energy Transition Skills Hub match the ambitions that Pembrokeshire has in the green and renewable energy sector. This is an exciting investment and a statement of commitment from Shell UK, Dragon Energy and Pembrokeshire College into developing the skilled workforce of today and the future.

“Pembrokeshire College has quickly become a real centre of excellence, and I congratulate everyone for flying the flag proudly for our part of the world.”