Member Article

University of Manchester and National Grid seal energy innovation agreement

The University of Manchester and National Grid have signed an agreement setting out areas for future collaboration centred on research, education and facilities.

The deal builds on a relationship first established in 2002, and reaffirms their commitment to supporting innovation in energy systems.

The National Grid Power Systems Research Centre, based at The University of Manchester, houses the largest and best equipped high voltage laboratory of any UK university.

It is home to research that supports the delivery of reliable and sustainable supplies of energy in increasing quantities while also meeting the desire for reduced environmental impact.

Over £3m has been invested in facilities over the past year as the University develops real-time platforms capable of assessing the impact of energy storage, protection, communication and sensing technologies in the energy system.

Vice-President and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Professor Colin Bailey, said: “We have had a valued relationship with National Grid over the past 10 years and have jointly delivered projects that are supporting the development of a secure and efficient energy system.

“This agreement focuses on further developing our partnership in three key areas – research, facilities and education. Technology alone will not transform our energy system and expertise from across the University will support National Grid in delivering the energy system of the future”

David Wright, Director of Electricity Transmission Asset Management at National Grid, said: “The challenges resulting from the move to a low carbon economy are both pressing and complex.

“The role and value of research and innovation has never been more central to the future success of our company, helping us to deliver value to the British consumer.

“National Grid and The University of Manchester have had a strong relationship for over a decade and we look forward to seeing our partnership develop further into the future.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Simon Malia .