Barrier Group Secures Contract for Groundbreaking Low-Carbon Power Project in Teesside

Barrier Group, an industrial services and modular construction firm based in the North East, has been awarded a pivotal contract for the NZT Power project, marking a significant milestone in the UK’s low-carbon infrastructure initiatives. This project underscores the region’s robust industrial supply chain and its increasing contribution to the nation’s net zero goals.

The contract, granted by Technip Energies, tasks Barrier with the design, engineering, and supply of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems for the new power station’s Turbine Hall. This facility is poised to become the world’s first commercial-scale gas-fired power station equipped with carbon capture technology.

The NZT Power project is a collaborative effort led by Technip Energies, in partnership with GE Vernova and construction firm Balfour Beatty, which will oversee the overall engineering, procurement, and construction of the onshore power, capture, and compression infrastructure.

Barrier’s HVAC engineering team, operating from its Haverton Hill facility in Teesside, is currently spearheading the engineering phase of the project. The scope of work includes designing and engineering the turbine hall HVAC systems, procuring specialist equipment and materials, and managing the project during this critical phase.

The turbine hall is a vital component of the Combined Cycle Gas Turbine power station, where electricity generation will occur using natural gas. The HVAC systems developed by Barrier will maintain optimal environmental conditions within the building, ensuring the safe operation of essential equipment and a secure working environment for personnel.

Presently, Barrier has approximately 10 employees dedicated to this contract, with plans to increase that number to nearly 20 as the project progresses. The contract has already facilitated the recruitment of five additional engineering professionals, enhancing the company’s HVAC engineering capabilities in the Tees Valley.

This project signifies a crucial advancement for Barrier in extending its engineering services into major energy infrastructure and decarbonisation efforts. Kevin Judson, Operations Director at Barrier Group, remarked, “Being involved in NZT Power is a significant contract award for Barrier and aligns directly with our strategic growth plans. It reflects the strength of our engineering capability and the contribution businesses in the Tees Valley make to nationally important infrastructure projects.”

Judson further stated, “This contract enables continued investment in our people and yard facilities, while supporting carbon capture infrastructure that is critical to the UK’s net zero ambitions and the long-term future of heavy industry.”

Barrier’s participation in the NZT Power project also aligns with its long-term objectives to expand operations from its River Tees yard and further develop its engineering and modular construction skills to support large-scale industrial initiatives across the region. In addition to bolstering low-carbon power generation, the NZT Power project is anticipated to create and sustain over 3,000 jobs during the construction phase, delivering lasting economic advantages for the Teesside area and reinforcing the UK’s low-carbon energy framework.