Hall 5, NEC, Birmingham, UK

20th & 21st May, 2026

NEC, Birmigham UK

20th & 21st May, 2026

PANEL SESSION:

Driving Net Zero through Industrial Sectors: A Regional and National Perspective Panel Session: Hosted by NEPIC (North East of England Process Industry Cluster

Driving Net Zero through Industrial Sectors: A Regional and National Perspective
Panel Session: Hosted by NEPIC (North East of England Process Industry Cluster

Overview:
This panel discussion aims to bring together industry leaders and government representatives to explore strategies for achieving Net Zero within the industrial sectors. With contributions from key industrial clusters and central government, the discussion will provide insights into challenges, opportunities, and best practices for accelerating the transition to a low-carbon economy.

THE PANEL

NEPIC Host: Joanne Fryett, CEO, NEPIC (North East of England Process Industry Cluster).

Panellists: Representatives from three major industrial clusters:

1. Jane Gaston. CEO Net Zero North West
2. Daren Smith Chair Tees Valley Industrial Cluster
3. Jonathan Oxley. Executive Director, Humber Energy Board Ltd
4. Dr. Edmund Ward, Deputy Director, Industrial Decarbonisation (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero).

Session Format:
Introduction by the NEPIC CEO, Joanne Fryett, will outline the session objectives and introduce the panellists.

Panel Presentations
1. Dr. Edmund Ward will provide an overview of central government policies and strategies to support industrial decarbonization.
2. Jane, Jonathan, Daren will share insights on their region’s progress, initiatives, and innovations towards Net Zero.
3. Interactive Q&A

The session will conclude with a dynamic Q&A, inviting audience members to engage with the panellists and pose questions.

Speakers:

Jane Gaston

Daren Smith

Jonathan Oxley

Dr. Edmund Ward

Joanne Fryett PANEL HOST