Meet the Ambassadors - Nehal Mehta

We caught up with Nehal Mehta, SSE Energy Solutions, Regionalisation Director, who explains his approach to regionalisation and why SSE is putting social value at the forefront of the journey towards net zero.

Can you tell us a little about your journey at SSE so far?

I’ve been part of the SSE team for over six years. Aside from being responsible for progressing our projects in energy infrastructure, I also lead on net zero projects and our regional Social Value initiatives.

What ignites your net zero spirit and makes your role at SSE Energy Solutions an enjoyable one?

For me it’s the profound commitment we have to fostering sustainable communities.

We're not just in the business of energy; we're in the business of people, diversity, and social impact.

One of the most exciting aspects of our work is the active recruitment and partnerships we're forging within the communities where we work. We've set up strong relationships with social value organisations, educational institutions, and community groups, creating pathways for individuals from diverse backgrounds to join our journey towards net zero.

But it doesn't stop there. Our regional strategy is all about collaboration and support. We actively seek out local contractors and suppliers, keeping the benefits close to home. We've also set up regional hubs so far in Greater Manchester, Liverpool, West Midlands, West Yorkshire, Teesside, and Sunderland. These hubs have become vibrant centres for innovation and collaboration, bringing us closer to the projects we're delivering and empowering our colleagues to engage face-to-face within the communities they serve and live.

And the best part? We're not stopping here. In the coming months, we aim to create even more regional hubs across the country. Our goal is clear: unlock investment in low-carbon infrastructure, generate jobs, and supply the essential skills needed to achieve a net zero future.

How can individuals get behind Social Value plans to contribute and be a part of the positive change you're championing?

I can tell you about some of the ways our colleagues are getting involved, all of which can be an inspiration for others:

• STEM Work and Volunteering, which not only allows you to give back to your community but also provides an opportunity to develop and learn new skills.

• From taking part in educational programs through to hands-on project work, you can show your enthusiasm for the topic, contribute your ability and engage our future change agents with your passion to create meaningful change.

• Mentoring is a powerful way to share knowledge, experience, and passion for the field. We’re aiming to guide and inspire young minds that enter the energy sector so they can leave a lasting impact, not only in their career but also in their wider lives. It's a two-way street of learning and growth.

• Environmental Conservation Volunteering is something we’re particularly passionate about. From our inclusion of nature walkways around EV hubs to Bee Hotels at some of our project sites, we believe this is a critical part of Social Value.

• Soft Skill Development is as important as the more technical skills. Communication, teamwork, leadership, and adaptability are qualities that we value highly at SSE Energy Solutions. Through our volunteer work and community engagement, our colleagues are improving these skills, making themselves more well-rounded and valuable professionals.

• Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone. An often used phrase but an important one. Social value initiatives encourage us to work differently, face new challenges, and broaden our horizons. It offers a fresh perspective on life and career in what is a fast moving sector.

In summary, individuals can contribute to our Social Value plans in diverse ways that not only help the community and the energy industry but also lead to personal growth and enrichment. By actively engaging in STEM work, mentoring, environmental conservation, and stepping out of your comfort zone, you become a driving force for positive change and self-improvement simultaneously. It's a win-win for all involved.

What's the most exciting thing you're looking forward to in your role over the next year of plans?

I'm incredibly excited about the plans and opportunities we have. One of the most thrilling aspects of my role is our commitment to contributing to a sustainable future.

We're actively working on groundbreaking projects to accelerate the transition to net zero, focusing on renewable energy, decarbonising transport, and creating sustainable places.

What's particularly exciting for me is the innovative use of digital technology solutions in achieving these goals. With our whole-system thinking approach, we're connecting the dots across various parts of the energy industry and sustainability to create a more resilient and efficient energy ecosystem.

In the coming year, I'm looking forward to launching some truly game-changing initiatives that will not only reduce carbon emissions but also improve the quality of life in the communities we serve. It's an exciting journey, and I'm eager to see the positive impact we'll make as we continue to lead the way in sustainable energy solutions. Stay tuned for some remarkable developments!