Jarrow’s Viking Energy Network have been given royal approval.

His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester officially opened the multi-award-winning Viking Energy Network, in Jarrow, and unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion.

Being a UK-first, the renewable energy scheme harnesses heat from the River Tyne and exports it to council-owned buildings, cutting annual carbon emissions by 1,035 tonnes.

During his visit, the Duke was received by the Lord Lieutenant of Tyne and Wear, Ms Lucy Winskell OBE, who presented the Mayor and Mayoress of South Tyneside.

The Duke of Gloucester has given the Viking Energy Network, in Jarrow, the royal seal of approval. | South Tyneside Council

placeholder image — The Duke of Gloucester has given the Viking Energy Network, in Jarrow, the royal seal of approval. | South Tyneside Council

He was also welcomed by around 30 children from Toner Avenue Primary School, who waved Union Flags to greet him.

The local schoolchildren were also designing posters to demonstrate their understanding of thermal and green energy.

Nicholas Davies, Energy Projects Manager at South Tyneside Council, also gave His Royal Highness a tour of the pioneering project, which became operational in October 2023.

During his visit, the Duke officially opened the renewable energy centre. | South Tyneside Council

Speaking about the visit, the Mayor of South Tyneside, Councillor Jay Potts, said: “It was an honour to welcome His Royal Highness to officially open the Viking Energy Network.

“It was also wonderful to have local schoolchildren join us to mark this occasion, which will be remembered as a milestone in South Tyneside’s journey towards a greener future.”

The Duke also met with schoolchildren from Toner Avenue Primary School. | South Tyneside Council

Cllr Tracey Dixon, Leader of South Tyneside Council, has expressed her pride in the South Tyneside project and highlighted how it reflects the Council’s commitment to net zero.

She commented: “We are extremely proud of our pioneering Viking Energy Network so it was a privilege to welcome His Royal Highness.

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“The network spearheaded our work to cut carbon emissions and delivers clean, green heat to buildings in the town.

“It demonstrates our commitment to net zero and shows how we have embraced innovation to tackle climate change.”

During his visit to South Tyneside, The Duke of Gloucester also commemorated the Friends of Hebburn Cemetery for their volunteer work. | South Tyneside Council

During his trip to South Tyneside, The Duke also met with the Friends of Hebburn Cemetery to celebrate their commitment to their year-round voluntary work.

It marked a proud moment for the group, who were awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2021 - the highest honour that can be given to volunteer groups in the UK.