Pioneer 2 Case Study
Our Pioneer 2 project in South Wales stands as a case study of our community benefits scheme in action.
By working closely with stakeholders, we have demonstrated how local input directly drives regional investment, upskilling, and meaningful environmental stewardship. Through Pioneer 2, we are turning the principles of a Just Transition into a tangible reality for the local community.
Our Impact in South Wales
We partnered with Neath Port Talbot Council, public organisations, local businesses and the community to learn about Baglan as a community in order to tailor our benefits package to support the specific economic and social fabric of the region.
Green Infrastructure
Minimal carbon footprint from day one: The majority of the construction phase itself was powered by green hydrogen, that was produced at our Pioneer 1 facility.
Community Resilience
Direct Local Support: We provided targeted marketing support to the Baglan Community Development Centre to help amplify their local outreach and services.
Local Procurement
Circulating Wealth Locally: We prioritised South Wales contractors and suppliers for the construction phase, ensuring economic benefits stay directly within the regional economy. For example, our principal contractor was MII Engineering Ltd, and all workers supporting on the construction of Pioneer 2 (approx. 35 people) lived within a 35 minute drive (max. 13km) from the P2 site.
Grassroots Engagement
Sponsorships & Environment: We are proud sponsors of local community organisations, including Clydach FC, and Baglan’s Great Together.
The Pioneer 2 community benefit scheme proves that green hydrogen development doesn’t just sit alongside a community—it can work with a community, to actively uplift it.
Education & Youth
Inspiring Tomorrow’s Workforce: We delivered engaging STEM workshops across local primary schools and after-school clubs to build early awareness of green energy technology.
Employment & Upskilling
A Just Transition for the Workforce: The entire Pioneer 2 project workforce is comprised of ex-Tata Steel employees, providing direct upskilling pathways into the emerging green tech sector for workers navigating industrial transition.
“Pioneer 2 shows that the transition to greener industry isn’t just something we talk about; it’s happening here in Neath Port Talbot, creating skilled jobs, supporting local businesses and helping experienced workers, including former Tata Steel employees, build careers in the industries of the future.
Cllr Josh Tuck, Baglan Ward, Neath Port Talbot Council
I have been blown away by Protium’s commitment to our community, from working with our local schools, Baglan Primary and Blaenbaglan Primary School, to inspire the next generation; to supporting local clubs, the Baglan Great Get Together and organisations that make Baglan and the wider area such a great place to live.
Projects like Pioneer 2 demonstrate what can be achieved when industry, local government and our communities work together. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this investment continues to have across Baglan and Neath Port Talbot for many years to come.
Congratulations and thank you to everyone who has played a part in making Pioneer 2 a reality.”
“As Protium is a local business based in Port Talbot, the workshop also fostered a strong sense of community pride. Historically recognised as an industrial town, Port Talbot is now at the forefront of exciting sustainable developments. Learning about these initiatives helped pupils appreciate the positive changes taking place within their local area and generated a sense of hope and optimism about the future. The experience was particularly motivating for budding scientists, engineers, and innovators, demonstrating that cutting-edge developments are happening right on their doorstep”
Karla Williams, Blaenbaglan Primary
See more on Pioneer 2
To learn more about the Pioneer 2 project click below