Pearson welcomes innovation centre

Ian Pearson, minister of State for Science and Innovation at the

(DIUS) has welcomed plans for a new Energy Innovation Centre. The plans are being developed by

at its headquarters in Capenhurst,

.

The centre is designed to incubate new ideas in energy technology, so that they develop from original concepts through to marketable products and services. It is expected to open fully in 2008, providing spaces for start-up companies and individual innovators.

‘This is a great initiative and a real asset for the north west and the UK energy industry,’ said Pearson during a visit to Capenhurst with EA Technology managing director Robert Davis.

‘I am particularly pleased that the centre is dedicated to supporting innovators and entrepreneurs in the energy sector, where Britain already has an excellent record of technical leadership and enormous potential world markets.’

Robert Davis added: ‘People working at the centre will have access to all the support they need to realise their ideas, including world class laboratories, testing facilities, technical, financial and marketing advice.

‘Above all, we have the experience to guide them safely through the ‘valley of death’ stages of development, which often put paid to innovations before they see the light of day.’