Scottish Energy Laboratory launched

A new Scottish Energy Laboratory (SEL) has been launched to strengthen collaboration across 50 energy research, test and demonstration facilities.

The SEL will be a 'virtual' hub for national and international companies to identify and access the most appropriate of Scotland's test and demonstration assets for their technologies.

This asset network has a combined investment value of some £250m across all key energy sectors and includes the European Marine Energy Centre in Orkney, the Hydrogen Office in Fife and the European Offshore Wind Development Centre in Aberdeen.

The SEL will also work with the individual centres to help co-ordinate activities, utilise assets more efficiently, help reduce risks in new product development and encourage future investment in energy technologies.

As well as assisting energy technology developers to identify and access test & demonstration facilities that best meet their needs, SEL will help firms seeking services, resources and partners for the subsequent development and commercialisation of their technology.

First Minister Alex Salmond said: "I am delighted to announce and formally launch the Scottish Energy Laboratory."

"It will support companies to develop, test and commercialise the technologies required to tackle climate change, strengthen energy security and help accelerate the delivery of a low carbon economy."

Further information:
Scottish Government