The MP for Meriden, Caroline Spelman, has officially opened The Energy Technologies Institute’s (ETI) new Birmingham office. The office is the centre for the ETI’s Smart Systems and Heat technology programme.
Once fully occupied more than 30 engineers, programme delivery, technology strategy and support staff will be employed on site. The ETI currently employs 70 people at its head office at Holywell Park on Loughborough University campus.
From its new home on the Birmingham Business Park, the ETI aims to design and test the first Smart Energy System in the UK facilitating improved heat management and low carbon energy services across the country for both domestic and commercial properties.
Commenting on the office opening, the Rt. Hon Caroline Spelman MP said:
“I welcome this new recruit to the Birmingham Business Park. Our excellent transport links and our strong manufacturing history make the Midlands the ideal place for this cutting-edge research into energy technology – a subject that is right for the times as we all try to save energy. I wish the Energy Technologies Institute all the best as they set up this ambitious project.”
Dr Grant Bourhill, the ETI’s Director, Smart Systems and Heat added:
“We are excited to be opening our second office here in Birmingham as our operation continues to grow. Energy efficiency is a key priority the UK needs to address if it is to meet the joint objectives of satisfying future customer demand and transitioning to a low carbon economy.”
Tony Bray, the Area Director for the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills, West Midlands commented:
“The focus of this ETI technology programme is to develop the first Smart Energy System demonstration of its kind in the UK. The programme has the potential to generate significant commercial opportunities and expand the UK’s capability in low carbon technologies. That’s why I’m delighted that the ETI is to open its second office in the UK, here in the West Midlands.”
Councillor Ian Courts, Cabinet Member for Economic Development & Regeneration added:
“We welcome the ETI to the Borough of Solihull, joining a rapidly growing business sector. Last year has seen investments to the area from specialist energy companies and international consultants in the energy and utility market. Solihull expects this sector to continue to thrive and for the Borough to grow as the chosen location for success.”
The programme is the largest in the ETI’s project portfolio and has a projected budget of up to £100m. Hitachi Ltd has joined as an Associate Member of the ETI to bring its expertise in smart systems design, integration and execution to the five-year programme alongside ETI’s existing members.
[mappress]
Press release, March 12, 2013; Image: eti