16 November 2022:

As one of Ireland's leading renewable energy developers and suppliers of green electricity, Energia Group proudly employs numerous scientists working across various fields, from marine biology to data science. This Science Week, which runs from the 13th to the 20th of November, Energia Group is celebrating the infinite possibilities and the role of science in the energy sector, and how that contributes to Ireland's climate goals.

Jessica Gilpin, Armagh native, joined Energia’s Corporate Development team on a graduate programme in 2021, after graduating in renewable energy at Ulster University. She is now an integral part of the team working on the Northern Ireland Green Seas project, looking at Belfast Harbour, Bangor, and Rathlin Island to determine their energy requirements and Net Zero pathways by 2050. These include battery energy storage, green hydrogen production and storage, shoreside electrical grid infrastructure, and renewable energy supply.

When asked about the project, she said: “I’ve really enjoyed seeing the project develop throughout the year and make a difference in the industry. My work has involved using cutting-edge technology and scientific advancements to help to solve real-world problems. I’ve had the opportunity to represent our project at the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition showcase event in Portsmouth in March, which was a great event not only to demonstrate what we have achieved but to see what the other advancements are being made.”

“As I am just starting out in my career in renewable energy, it is great to see the new developments in the sector which I will be using for years to come as we race towards the Net Zero 2050 target. It may seem far away now, but I will be 51 when we reach that target, and still working to tackle the challenges facing us.”

Encouraging more young people to get involved in science, Jessica said: “Science is by its nature innovative, which means the work is always exciting. There are so many opportunities available in the energy sector and it allows you to work anywhere in the world. For anyone who is already studying science or thinking about it, I would definitely recommend it. I was fortunate to work in the industry as part of my university placement and this confirmed that science and engineering were certainly the areas where I saw my career developing.

To find out more, please visit: www.energiagroup.com