Energy Systems Catapult: Birmingham location for new centre
A new technology and innovation centre, the Energy Systems Catapult, will be located in Birmingham. The centre will exploit commercial opportunities for new products and services created by the transformation of energy networks. It will also benefit from being close to an existing local hub of private, public and academic organisations working in energy systems.
"Locating the Catapult in Birmingham puts it right at the heart of a vibrant energy hub that will bring researchers and businesses together – a key component of bringing new and innovative ideas to market", said Business Secretary Vince Cable.
The power of partnership
The decision to locate the Energy Systems Catapult in Birmingham follows agreement with the Energy Technologies Institute (ETI) to merge their existing Smart Systems and Heat Programme into the new Catapult. Energy Systems Catapult Chairman Nick Winser said: "The Birmingham area has a strong cluster of businesses and academic activity related to energy, as well as excellent transport links. The advanced discussions with the ETI to merge their existing Birmingham based team into the Catapult provides us with the opportunity to make a strong start."
Catapults
The Energy Systems Catapult is one of 2 new Catapults set to open from April 2015, the other being the Precision Medicine Catapult. There are currently 7 Catapults up and running – High Value Manufacturing, Cell Therapy, Satellite Applications, Future Cities, Digital, Offshore Renewable Energy and Transport Systems.
