Technical Discussion – 4 November 2025 Guildhall 1700-1930

Synopsis:

Energy security is now a critical national priority. As the UK accelerates toward net zero, the resilience of our energy systems underpins everything, from economic stability and public safety to national sovereignty. Without it, the risks are severe: blackouts, cyber threats, and systemic failures that could ripple across society.

Energy infrastructure now depends on a complex ecosystem, from cables and AI to access ships and power electronics. Power electronics play a pivotal role in enabling the flexible, efficient, and intelligent control of energy across increasingly dynamic networks. The integration of whole energy systems, including transport and heat, into the electricity grid adds further complexity, demanding seamless coordination across sectors. At the heart of this transformation is the need for rigorous test and validation to ensure performance, safety, and resilience under real-world conditions.

Dr Will Drury will introduce or discussion by debating how engineering must evolve to meet this challenge.  He will examine the shift from centralised to distributed systems; and the vital role of cybersecurity, data, and digital technologies in enabling the control room of the future.  He will pose a number of questions for Members to discuss at their tables and then feedback.

This is not just an engineering challenge, it’s a call to action.  Members of The Worshipful Company of Engineers, coming from many branches of engineering, are well positioned to discuss how we can help shape a secure, sustainable energy future for the UK and beyond.

Format:

  • 1700 Introduction and Rules for the Discussion
  • 1715 Dr Will Drury, CEO of the Power Networks Demonstration Centre, University of Strathclyde
  • 1735 Table Discussions
  • 1820 Feedback from Tables and Speaker Summary
  • 1845 Drinks, Canapes and Networking
  • 1930 Close

Dr Will Drury:

Dr Will Drury is the CEO of the Power Networks Demonstration Centre (PNDC), one of the University of Strathclyde’s flagship industry-facing innovation centres. He is also the Senior Responsible Owner (SRO) for the University’s new Advanced Net Zero Innovation Centre, set to open in Summer 2025.

He has a distinguished career in Power Electronics, Machines and Drives (PEMD), and previously served as Executive Director for Digital and Technologies at Innovate UK, where he led national programmes including the Driving the Electric Revolution Challenge, helping to position the UK as a global leader in PEMD technologies. His work has significantly influenced the UK’s innovation landscape, fostering collaboration between industry, academia, and government.

Earlier in his career, he was a Global Technical Expert at Ricardo, contributing to cutting-edge engineering and environmental consultancy projects. He is a Chartered Engineer, Fellow of the IET, Senior Member of the IEEE, and holds a PhD and MEng from the University of Bristol.  He is also a Member of the Livery.

Booking:

Places are limited and on a first come first served basis.  Price £45.00 per person.

Members should book through WebOffice as usual.

Non-members can book and pay to attend on Ticket Tailor here: Engineering Energy Security

For further details or any queries, please contact the Clerk at Clerk@engineerscompany.org.uk