Knowledge transfer

A knowledge transfer network (KTN) has been created to improve collaboration and knowledge sharing between organisations in the energy generation and supply sector.

The Technology Strategy Board (TSB) has awarded a three-year contract to a consortium led by research and technology group, TWI, to run the KTN with the aim providing a ‘front door’ to EU and UK funding in the energy generation and supply industry.

The KTN plans to do this through networking and funding opportunities in areas including offshore wind, wave and tidal, carbon abatement technologies, fuel cells and future energy opportunities.

Iain Gray, chief executive of the TSB, said: ‘We decided that it was necessary to establish the KTN because energy generation and supply is a priority sector for the Technology Strategy Board.

'While a number of networks are active in parts of the energy innovation landscape, there is no dedicated network delivering knowledge exchange in this area.’

Dr Mark Williamson, director of Innovations at the Carbon Trust, added: ‘This is a great initiative and will help to secure the UK’s position as a hub of low-carbon innovation.

'It’s vital that organisations collaborate effectively to accelerate innovation in energy technologies if we are to meet the UK’s ambitious carbon reduction targets.’

The Energy Generation and Supply KTN will be formally launched in October. Key contributors include AEA Technology, the Advanced Power Generation Technology Forum, the Industry Technology Facilitator, Synnogy and the UK Energy Research Centre.