UK: Nottingham to lead in green energy

[FabianPattberg]

Hello members,

I thought this recent article might be of interest:

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A New £1bn research complex developing the future of green energy will put Nottingham firmly on the international map.

Leading city figures welcoming the creation of the New Energy Technologies Institute say it will also create local jobs and boost business in the city.

As reported on the Evening Post website - www.thisisnottingham.co.uk - yesterday, the University of Nottingham will run the institute, alongside Birmingham University and Loughborough University. It will be based on the Loughborough campus.

Professor Sir Colin Campbell, vice chancellor of the University of Nottingham, said: "This news offers an outstanding opportunity for three distinguished universities to demonstrate the extent to which the United Kingdom is a significant force in the international market for knowledge and research excellence.

"It will allow us to make the most of our shared determination to help secure the well-being of future generations through our science and innovation."

The institute aims to find ways to develop green energy within ten years.

Coun Mike Edwards, of Nottingham City Council, said: "This is really terrific news. For all the good, green things happening in this city, this takes us on a stage through local jobs, good and services."

The centre will be calling on businesses to come up with big ideas and inventions that will help the UK to:

Cut CO2 emissions

Keep the public warm with more efficient and cost effective energy

Guarantee the country has the energy supplies it needs now and in the future.

The project will receive £550m from the Government and a similar amount from industry over ten years.

The University of Nottingham will receive a share of the money, and Nottingham's involvement is supported by public bodies and private companies.

Energy giant E-ON employs 4,500 people in Notts. Teaming up with Loughborough and Birmingham means Rolls-Royce, Caterpillar and Shell also represent potential partners.

The project aims to link up the best scientists and engineers in academic and industrial organisations to speed up the development of new energy technology so it can be used within a decade. The decision is likely to have a positive knock-on effect, potentially leading to numerous environmental technologies being based in the region.

The city council is already encouraging businesses to review their energy policies and is planning its own localised carbon trading scheme. for the city.

The university already has a pedigree in renewable energy research.

Innovation Secretary John Denham said: "The institute will deliver solutions to help make the energy in our homes and businesses safer, cheaper and more sustainable for the future.

" This will help to establish the UK as one of the leaders in global clean energy."

The institute is expected to be fully operational by 2008.

Source: http://www.thisisnottingham.co.uk/di...pNodeId=134461