The Energy Systems Accelerator

Enabling infrastructure

£600k

Funded

The project

A new multi-disciplinary hub, the first of its kind in the UK, where organisations can come together to innovate in zero-carbon energy systems.

The Energy Systems Accelerator (TESA) was established by the University of Oxford, initially as a ‘mini- TESA’ co-working space for 100 people. Plans are now moving forward to significantly scale up the work and so help ensure the UK delivers its ambitious carbon-reduction targets.

The opportunity

There is arguably no greater challenge for the UK and the rest of the world right now than making the transition to a more sustainable energy system. Co-location of key stakeholders (including the Low Carbon Hub and SSE Networks) co-creates solutions, delivers global leadership in zero-carbon energy systems and underpins the future development of the Osney Mead industrial estate. TESA will support entrepreneurs building new businesses, create jobs and encourage investment and economic growth.

Progress

Secured £600,000 of government funding via the Getting Building Fund to convert Holywell House for a proof-of-concept Mini-TESA that opened in June 2022. By March 2023 it had already created 58 jobs against a target of 102 by March 2025, including those in the University’s new Zero Institute.

Oxfordshire hosts two of the three UK Government’s major energy systems demonstrator projects, funded under the Industrial Strategy’s Prospering from the Energy Revolution programme. In just a short time, Mini-TESA has proved the value of co-locating the University with key stakeholders and is attracting more companies to hot-desk and ramp up innovation. Oxford is fast becoming a sustainable energy pioneer by making itself both the subject and instrument of research, education and planning.

Other projects

Oxford station (western side)

Oxford Station – western side

A new track, platform, ticket hall and wider bridge over Botley Road.

Learn more about Oxford Station – western side
a train pulling into Oxford Station behind the car park

Oxford Station – eastern side

A new track and platform, main station building, bus interchange and walking and cycling provision, and an enhanced public realm.

Learn more about Oxford Station – eastern side
A replacement wider bridge over the Bulstake Stream on Willow Walk

Osney Mead and Thames active travel

A number of different schemes that enhance the usability and attractiveness of quiet active travel (pedestrian and cycle) routes in the Learn more about Osney Mead and Thames active travel

a cyclist in the city

Botley Road bus and cycle enhancements

Highway improvements that aim to reduce bus journey times and provide a safer and more attractive route for cyclists and Learn more about Botley Road bus and cycle enhancements

Train pulling out of station

Cowley Branch Line

Reopening of passenger services on the branch line, with two new stations to Oxford Littlemore and Oxford Cowley, 7 and Learn more about Cowley Branch Line

Burying or diverting power lines

Osney Mead is crossed by two power lines that could be buried or diverted.

Learn more about Burying or diverting power lines
River Thames Bridge and path works CGI

Oxpens River Bridge and path works

This new bridge is proposed between Oxpens and Grandpont Nature Park. It is designed as a shared space for both Learn more about Oxpens River Bridge and path works

River Thames surrounded by green shrubs and walking path

Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme

One of the biggest flood schemes currently planned in England. Working with the natural floodplain to the west of Oxford, Learn more about Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme

two people enjoying Broad Meadow experimental public space

Movement and Place Interventions

The Central Oxfordshire Travel Plan identified a need for a Movement and Place Framework. This study will integrate all planned Learn more about Movement and Place Interventions

a bus and pedestrians in Oxford

Traffic Filters Trial

Camera enforced points on identified roads that will require private vehicles passing through to have a permit.

The scheme aims to Learn more about Traffic Filters Trial

A bus moving through a city. Greener ways to travel.

Zero Emission Zone

Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council have introduced a Zero Emission Zone (ZEZ) in Oxford to improve air quality, Learn more about Zero Emission Zone

Workplace Parking Levy

An annual charge to businesses for staff parking spaces at their premises. Businesses with 11 or more staff parking spaces Learn more about Workplace Parking Levy

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