A new pioneering institute has launched at Aston University, paving the way for world-class research into all aspects of bioenergy.
The European Bioenergy Research Institute (EBRI) will carry out international research into all aspects of bioenergy, ranging from fundamental research in the field through to collaborating with industry in developing the deployment of innovative technologies. It will also offer unique opportunities for joint activities between industry and researchers from all over Europe.
EBRI is led by Professor Andreas Hornung and will promote and manage the implementation of bioenergy technologies at a local, national and European level. It will also provide operational and test facilities for industry and provide heat and power to Aston Science Park.
The EBRI’s activities and complementary research at Aston University will integrate the work of local and national Universities and act a focus for pan-European activities on scientific and technological aspects of biomass production, conversion and utilisation of products used for renewable power, heat, transport fuels and chemicals.
A grand inauguration of the centre took place on Monday, June 30, and Tuesday, July 1, at the university. It was sponsored by Locate in Birmingham. The launch was led and attended by internationally-recognised speakers, delegates and experts in the field of bioenergy from countries as far afield as Norway, Hungary, Italy, Spain, and Germany.
The event’s opening address was given by Professor Julia King, Aston University’s vice-chancellor. This was followed by a number of presentations exploring the latest topical issues in bioenergy research.
EBRI’s activities will include fundamental and applied research, analytical and test services for companies, consultancy for companies and governments, assessment of biomass conversion opportunities, and providing training courses for industry, researchers and policy and decision makers.
The Institute will also develop and operate a demonstration scale CHP (combined heat and power) plant which will be used for research and training. It will also enable industry to assess the feasibility of using different types of biomass in an advanced plant.
Mike Loftus, of Locate in Birmingham, said: “Every day the media headlines reinforce the need to identify and implement new ways of generating energy. I have no doubt that the EBRI initiative will ensure that this region plays a fundamental role in this achieving this important task.”
Locate in Birmingham, the city’s inward investment agency, is working closely with Aston University on the EBRI initiative as part of the Science City agenda which looks to build on Aston University’s strengths in research into bioenergy.
For further information on EBRI, please contact Professor Andreas Hornung on 0121 204 3391 or email a.hornung@aston.ac.uk.
