Plaque designed at Gray’s School of Art features in high profile visit
Tuesday 22 September 2026
A commemorative plaque designed by Robert Gordon University’s Gray’s School of Art formed part of a landmark moment for Aberdeen's energy future when it was unveiled during His Majesty The King's recent visit to the headquarters of Great British Energy.
The plaque, created by the team at Gray's School of Art, was designed to reflect Aberdeen's journey through decades of energy innovation and expertise, celebrating the city's past while recognising its role in shaping a lower-carbon future.
Leading the creative work was Daniel Sutherland, Associate Dean for Economic, Social and Cultural Development at Gray's School of Art, who worked alongside partners to develop a piece that captures the region's enduring connection with the energy sector.
His Majesty visited the Aberdeen headquarters to learn more about Great British Energy's work, including its focus on community energy projects and improving access to employment opportunities within the renewable energy sector.
RGU was also represented at the event by Donella Beaton, Vice Principal Partnerships and a member of the Aberdeen Energy Taskforce.
She said: "Great British Energy's decision to be headquartered in Aberdeen demonstrates its clear intent to be at the centre of developments in the North East of Scotland and underscores the pivotal role the region will play in securing the nation's long-term energy future.
"We now look forward to working collaboratively with Great British Energy and other partners to help ensure that the people who have contributed to the UK's energy success are supported to continue doing so in the years ahead."
The visit also saw the announcement of a new £750,000 partnership focused on skills, training and employability in the North East of Scotland. Working with local partners, the initiative aims to support people into energy and related sectors, helping to address barriers faced by young people, those not currently in education, employment or training, and individuals from disadvantaged communities.
As a university with deep links to the energy industry and a longstanding commitment to creativity, innovation and skills development, RGU is proud to have played a part in an event that showcased the North East's continued contribution to the UK's energy future.