UK-Saudi partner to mass-produce graphene for clean energy applications

The clean energy transition

Graphene, a two-dimensional nanomaterial with a honeycomb structure, is known for its considerable strength, flexibility, and conductivity. When combined with carbon fibre, a material composed of thin, strong crystalline carbon filaments, the resulting composite becomes even stronger and stiffer.

The carbon fibre infused with graphene will be used to manufacture trucks, buses, and components for hydrogen production and distribution systems. Not only does this promise to improve performance and durability, but it could also offer a cost-effective solution for industries transitioning to cleaner energy sources by reducing material requirements and extending the lifespan of components, for example.

Investment in UK innovation

As part of the deal, £250 million will fund a research and innovation hub in the UK, creating 1,000 jobs and stimulating the technology sector. The hub will focus on the development and application of graphene-infused materials, reinforcing the UK’s position as a leader in material science and clean energy innovation.

This investment is expected to drive advancements in clean energy transportation and contribute to the UK economy while enabling cutting-edge research in sustainable technologies.

Saudi Arabia’s clean energy ambitions

Saudi Arabia, through its Vision 2030 programme, is actively seeking to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil, and a key part of this vision is the NEOM gigaproject. NEOM is a futuristic eco-city designed to embody sustainable development.

Graphene Innovations Manchester (GIM) is partnering with Saudi Arabia to support the NEOM initiative, which includes The Line – a 100-mile linear city designed to be car- and carbon-free. The new graphene-enriched carbon fibre factory will play a crucial role in aligning with Saudi Arabia's clean energy goals, contributing to the Kingdom's broader sustainability objectives.

Project timeline

The first machine for producing graphene-enriched carbon fibre is already operational, and the full-scale factory, based in Saudi Arabia, is expected to be ready for operation by the end of 2025. The project is being delivered by GIM in collaboration with Riyadh-based investment firm Organized Chaos.

This collaboration is a move to merge UK innovation with Saudi investment to tackle global challenges in sustainability and energy efficiency.

Prime Minister Kier Starmer said: ““Every region and nation in the United Kingdom should feel the impact of our Plan for Change, which is why I am in the Gulf forging closer ties and strengthening relationships that support our growth mission in every corner of the country.

“I am determined to ensure international diplomacy drives local results, whether that is discussing how we can support regeneration in the UK or supporting business deals that create jobs – my international agenda starts at home.”

The development of graphene-enriched carbon fibre at a commercial scale is certainly a milestone in material science and clean energy applications and whilst the initial focus for the project is on transport and hydrogen systems, the potential applications could have far-reaching impacts across industries from aerospace to renewable energy infrastructure.