Energy – the final frontier?
The transition from a career developing structures for use in space to solving the challenges of implementing hydrogen infrastructure may not seem straightforward, but for Penspen’s Head of Engineering (Europe), Tristan Huet, a natural inquisitiveness for all things STEM has ensured he’s always seeking out innovative projects that make a difference. In this Our People feature, Tristan explains what attracted him to a career where he’s delivering groundbreaking hydrogen repurposing projects in Europe, and shares his advice for the next generation of energy transition specialists.
“Growing up, outer space always fascinated me.”
My Dad sparked my interest in engineering – he worked in the space industry in Paris, France.
I studied a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at the Université Technologique de Compiègne in northern France, with an additional year studying a Master’s in Advanced Materials at Cranfield University in the UK – a research university specialising in engineering and science. As part of the degree, I took on an internship for Airbus Space in the UK – my first professional role.
After graduating, I held a series of jobs working for the aerospace and subsea industry. The first of which was in Hamburg, Germany, for one of Airbus’ suppliers for the A350 plane. A project that stands out for me was leading the development of the 4MOST telescope optical instrument: a world-class telescope which performs key astronomical surveys of our galaxy.
“I discovered the energy sector by chance, and it’s the challenging-yet-rewarding nature of the work that has made me stay.”
I’ve worked in several different countries across Europe, including France, Germany, and now the UK. I came to Aberdeen somewhat unexpectedly – I saw a role that looked interesting in the subsea oil and gas industry and took a chance.
Like working on the 4MOST telescope, I’ve always sought out projects that are driven by innovation and make a real difference. Over the years, I’ve worked across various industries in materials, mechanical, and project management roles – from product development for subsea technology to offshore installation campaigns. I think that breadth of experience has been so valuable.
What I found intriguing when I moved into the energy sector was the sheer scale of interesting problems to solve. It’s a field where new solutions need to be found every day and that’s become clearer than ever with the acceleration of the energy transition. It’s something that Penspen is actively involved in, and our team is working hard to provide innovative solutions to ensure the transition can be delivered in a way that ensures continued energy security.
“The work we do at Penspen really matters and benefits communities across the world, but most of all: it’s exciting.”
I’ve always felt strongly about protecting the environment. I love the outdoors, and in my free time you’ll probably catch me hiking, climbing, or sailing. They’re activities that have always been important for my wellbeing, but I also think activities like these give you an even greater appreciation of how important it is that we protect our planet. They’ve given me a real sense of the direct impact that our energy mix has on the world we live in, and why it’s vital that we transition to cleaner energy.
Because of that, one thing I’m particularly proud of is to be working on hydrogen repurposing projects across Europe. From working with Redes Energéticas Nacionais (REN) on hydrogen blending facility design for the Portuguese national gas transmission network, to providing hydrogen gap analysis services to Trans Adriatic Pipeline AG in Southern Europe, these are projects that are fuelling the energy transition here in Europe. It’s no small task – these are major strategic projects which will protect and improve access to secure and sustainable energy for the region, driving the transition to cleaner fuels by adapting the infrastructure that already exists.
Hydrogen projects are so important in our efforts to reach net zero. Hydrogen offers the possibility to transport and store a large amount of energy, so it’s key to long-term decarbonisation. And because of the scale of Europe’s pipelines, repurposing these networks for more sustainable fuels like hydrogen can unlock serious potential for reducing CO2 emissions. In that sense, the work we do on these projects leads the way as a blueprint to be emulated by gas networks across Europe.
“My career path wasn’t necessarily linear, but it was always driven by my own passions.”
My advice to aspiring engineers looking to work in energy transition is to be open to opportunities that you might not expect. I’ve always felt that the work I do is exciting, and that it matters – it gives me purpose. But I’ve also been able to apply the learnings from my experience in other sectors to meet the challenges of the energy transition. If you follow your passions, when you look back at your career, you’ll realise how all your experiences played a part in the path you followed. There’s never been a more exciting time for engineers who want to make a real difference.
- Tristan joined Penspen as an Engineering Manager in 2023. Now, as Head of Engineering, he manages the UK engineering team to ensure Penspen delivers projects in line with our commitments to clients, with a particular focus on energy transition projects.
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