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North East energy gets £1.6m boost

North East SMEs are about to benefit from a new £1.6m project to exploit new technologies thanks to Newcastle University.

The institution is to establish a state of the art facility combining a range of energy innovations to propel development in the region.

This, according to Professor Tony Roskilly at Newcastle University, has the potential to improve energy systems, create alternative fuel supplies and reduce Co2 in electrical power generation.

Professor Roskilly, said: “There is plenty of scope to enhance SME growth in our region by exploiting research and the development of new and improved products in the energy sector.

“We want to help SMEs in the energy supply chain and give them a platform for the research and testing of emerging technologies.”

A range of new equipment will be installed at the SWAN Thermal Energy Laboratory in the University’s Stephenson Building and the Trigeneration Facility at NaREC in Blyth.

Newcastle University will also be organising regional energy forums where new technology developments and opportunities will be presented and will stage visits to assess the performance of SMEs.

Lesley Calder, Head of One North East European Skills and Strategy, added: “North East England is in a great position to exploit new and emerging technologies and convert these into commercial ones.

“The new facility will enable the transfer of expertise to those working in SMEs in a number of industrial sectors, ensuring our region plays a leading role in a rapidly changing energy sector.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .