Local MP and Mayor visit University to learn about Carbon Capture innovation

The University of Wolverhampton in partnership with MERCIA Group Services and the National Brownfield Institute, welcomed West Midlands Combined Authority Mayor, Richard Parker and Pat McFadden MP for Wolverhampton South East to its research facilities, to showcase pioneering work on diesel generator emissions reduction and carbon capture technology. This research is a flagship industry academia partnership project with global impacts on achieving net zero emissions. It’s also perfectly aligned with the university’s Green Innovation Corridor purpose.

The visit highlighted the organisation’s commitment to tackling climate change through innovative engineering solutions. The team presented their bespoke carbon capture unit, designed specifically for a diesel generator exhaust, which features a bubble column absorber and advanced filtration systems. These technologies aim to reduce harmful pollutants such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter - significantly improving air quality and reducing environmental impact.

Dr Tohid Bohrani, lead researcher on the project, said:

“It has been an honour to welcome our local MP and the West Midlands Mayor to showcase the work we’re doing. Their visit underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing climate challenges. We hope our carbon capture project will play a meaningful role in reducing the impact of carbon on climate change and improving lives, especially in communities where diesel generators are a vital source for providing electricity.”

The carbon capture system is currently being tested in a real-world experimental environment in a shipping container at the National Brownfield Institute. The setup simulates various operational loads to optimise the performance of the filtration and capture units.

Pat McFadden, MP for Wolverhampton Southeast added: “I’m really pleased to visit the National Brownfield Institute today, it’s a fantastic asset for the city; the University as a whole is a fantastic asset. All of this is about giving young people opportunity but also pursuing research projects that can benefit our economy. The University supports both of these aims.”

The technology has broad potential applications, including mobile and remote generator installations, non-road machinery, and industrial sectors. MERCIA Group Services has submitted multiple funding proposals to support further development and deployment, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable innovation.

Jamie Fereday of MERCIA Group Sevices was delighted to highlight the company’s commitment to research and development:

“Our collaboration with the University of Wolverhampton has the potential to create local jobs and to reduce harmful emissions from diesel generators in the UK and all around the world. As a proud Black Country business, our work in Green Energy and Technologies finds practical ways for businesses to reduce energy costs and be kinder to the environment.”