An international consortium has agreed to explore a transformational clean energy initiative on the Humber that could include a ‘floating power barge’ and a small nuclear reactor.
Chiltern Vital Group (CVG) – the owners of the Berkeley Science and Technology Park and partners in the Yorkshire Energy Park Freeport – and their international maritime and energy investment partners, Freepan Holdings Corp., have signed an agreement committing them to evaluating the feasibility of establishing a ‘floating power barge’ on the Humber Estuary near Saltend to generate electricity from liquid natural gas. If it goes ahead, it is hoped power could be produced by 2028.
The legally non-binding deal also includes a longer-term proposal for Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology. SMRs are a new type of small nuclear reactors that cost less than traditional, larger nuclear reactors.
The Government sees a lot of potential in nuclear power, with the Energy Secretary, Ed Miliband, recently saying: “We are ending the no-nuclear status quo,” adding that we are “entering a golden age of nuclear.” Last month, the Government signed a £2.5bn deal with Rolls Royce to develop and construct the nation’s first SMRs.
Karl Turner, MP for Hull East, said: “The Humber has always been a national asset — and with the right investment, it can now become a cornerstone of Britain’s clean energy future. This initiative brings together international expertise, local delivery, and a long-term vision that aligns closely with the UK’s Industrial and Infrastructure Strategies.
“It represents the kind of bold, regionally anchored project that creates skilled jobs, strengthens resilience, and drives growth where it’s most needed. I’m pleased to support this effort and will continue to work with colleagues in government and industry to ensure the Humber’s full potential is realised.”
Chris Turner, CEO of CVG and Chairman of the Yorkshire Energy Park, said: “Working with UK and international financial and technology partners offers a unique opportunity for the Humber to benefit from large-scale, long-term energy investment that will support new advanced manufacturing industries and skilled job creation on the Humber.”
Panagiotis Natsiopoulos, Chartered Fellow, Chairman & CEO of Freepan Holdings Corp., said: “The UK’s need for dependable, clean, and fast-track energy solutions is now a matter of national competitiveness. The Humber stands out as one of the few regions with the infrastructure, ambition, and alignment to deliver at scale.
“Through this partnership, Freepan Holdings Corp., a transition clean energy developer in the full value chain of LNG, Hydrogen, White/Green Ammonia, brings international capital, technical expertise, and a deep commitment to accelerating Britain’s energy transition. Our immediate focus is delivering floating decarbonised power capacity by 2028.”
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