In July 2025 the teams from CCR Energy and Cardiff Capital Region (CCR) hosted a visit to the former Aberthaw power station in South Wales by the UK2070 Commission Taskforce and His Excellency Mr Jeremiah Nyamane Mamabolo, High Commissioner of South Africa to the United Kingdom.
The mission saw the Vice Chair of the UK2070 Taskforce Programme, Baroness Wilcox of Newport, and the Pro-Vice Chancellor of Teesside University join His Excellency and his team in exploratory discussions on the remediation taking place in a post-industrial site such as Aberthaw and what its eventual transformation will mean for clean energy provision and the economy of South Wales.
As a flagship component of the UK2070 Taskforce Programme, this post industrialisation collaboration links Teesside, South Wales and Komati in the Mpumalanga region of South Africa; the Aberthaw site exemplifies the transformation of legacy infrastructure into a model of clean energy innovation and regional regeneration.
Professor Michael Henson, Chair of the UK2070 Taskforce Programme, commented:
“High Commissioner Mamabolo’s visit underscores the Taskforce’s commitment to delivering international collaboration rooted in place. Aberthaw demonstrates how strategic repurposing, led by regional innovation and backed by global diplomacy, can unlock real change.”
His Excellency Mr Jeremiah Nyamane Mamabolo stated:
“It is a privilege to witness the transformative progress underway at Aberthaw. We hold in high regard the work of the UK2070 Commission Taskforce, not only in advancing net-zero objectives but also in promoting a people-and-place-centred approach to development. This partnership exemplifies how international cooperation can support inclusive growth, shared prosperity and sustainable communities across both South Africa and the United Kingdom.”
Baroness Wilcox of Newport added:
“As an advocate for Wales and the people of Wales, I was proud to join this important visit. Aberthaw stands as a powerful example of local ambition connected to global opportunity. This international partnership is beyond invaluable – for our communities today, and for future generations across both nations.”
Professor Steve Cummings, Pro Vice Chancellor and Knowledge Exchange, Teesside University said:
“This visit reinforces Teesside University’s commitment to research-led transformation in collaboration with global partners. We are proud to support the UK2070 Taskforce in advancing practical innovation and cross-continental knowledge exchange – connecting places like Teesside, Aberthaw and Komati through shared values, research excellence and sustainable growth.”
Cllr Bronwen Brooks, Chair of CCR Energy, said:
“It was a privilege to welcome High Commissioner Mamabolo to Aberthaw, a site at the centre of our region’s clean energy ambitions. His visit highlights the strength of our growing international partnerships. We thank the UK2070 Commission and Baroness Wilcox for their continued support, and look forward to future collaboration with South Africa and Teesside – driving innovation, opportunity, and a just transition for our communities.”
Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby, Leader, Monmouthshire Council, and Chair, Cardiff Capital Region (CCR), added:
“Partnerships are at the heart of our work here at CCR. We value this significant international collaboration, as we share the common mission to deliver transformational clean energy projects that will shape our regions, grow our economies, and create a future that is inclusive and prosperous for generations to come.”
The visit included site tours, stakeholder roundtables and forward-planning sessions on:
- The co-design of Virtual Net Zero Centres in South Wales, Teesside and Komati, South Africa
- Academic collaboration through the South African Presidential PhD Programme
- Ongoing engagement with the South African Presidential Climate Commission, CCR Energy, Cardiff Capital Region, Cardiff University, Teesside University, and South Africa’s Department of Science and Innovation
The visit reinforced the growing cooperation between UK regional leadership and South Africa on shared challenges including industrial decarbonisation, skills transition, and inclusive growth.
