Tree Associates Opens New Facility at Hethel Innovation: A Major Step Toward Commercial Readiness
Last week marked a significant milestone for Tree Associates as we opened our new, larger facility at Hethel Innovation — a space purpose-built to help us scale our technologies and progress from TRL 6 toward full commercial readiness. This expansion represents far more than just additional square footage; it signifies the next phase in our mission to deliver practical, scalable solutions for a sustainable future.
To commemorate the opening, CEO Johan Neethling welcomed a group of partners, collaborators, and long-standing supporters, including:
Eckhard A. Groll – Purdue University
Robert Smith – Innovate UK
Chris Sargisson – Hethel Innovation
Steven Webb – H W Webb (Engineers) Ltd
Their presence reflects the collaborative strength that has driven Tree Associates to this point — and the partnerships that will fuel our continued innovation.
Building the Future: Two Breakthrough Technologies in Development
At the core of this new chapter are two pioneering technologies that will soon move into prototype construction within the new space.
AirBattery: Long-Duration Energy Storage for a Net-Zero World
Our AirBattery system is a modular compressed air energy storage (CAES) solution designed to deliver long-duration, sustainable energy storage. By utilising compressed air as a clean and scalable storage medium, AirBattery can support grid stability, industrial energy resilience, and the wider transition toward net zero.
Scalable, flexible, and inherently sustainable, the AirBattery aims to redefine what’s possible in long-duration energy storage.
Carbon Capture Unit: Compact, Modular, and Built for Real-World Deployment
Alongside AirBattery, we are advancing our Carbon Capture Unit — a compact, modular system designed to capture CO₂ at source. Engineered for practicality, scalability, and cost-efficiency, this technology gives industries a realistic pathway to reducing emissions and meeting carbon-reduction targets without compromising performance.
From manufacturing to energy production, the unit is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing operations, enabling organisations to take meaningful, measurable steps toward decarbonisation.
A Glimpse Into What’s Next
We captured this milestone moment in a short film — showcasing the new space, the spirit of collaboration, and the technologies that will shape our journey ahead.
