I was recently invited to join a guided tour of the Smart Energy Network Demonstrator (SEND), at Keele University. SEND can be described as “an at scale environment, providing a platform that allows energy generation, distribution, energy balancing, forecasting and storage to be intelligently carried out across a range of different energy sources”, using the Keele University campus as a genuine ‘living laboratory’.
As you drive along the A50, from Longton heading past the Bet365 Stadium, look to the horizon and you’ll see a pair of wind turbines in the distance. Both are based in the Keele University campus, alongside a bank of solar panels.
SEND has a focus on reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change, whilst driving new research and development. SEND is being delivered in partnership with Siemens and will improve energy management, whllst reducing reliance on energy generated from fossil-fuels. The programme will also aim to reduce energy waste and provide opportunities to trial innovative ways of energy use and management.
Just five miles to the east, Staffordshire University has launched a Micro turbine renewable energy combustor (MiTREC). Staffordshire University has recognised that centralised power generation in power plants produces significant amounts of carbon pollution, with energy lost through transmission. MiTREC programme has developed an innovative biogas fuelled micro-combustor, to generate clean, affordable energy for countries around the world. Working in partnership with Cranfield University and Bladon Microturbine Ltd, mini generators can improve energy efficiency by approximately 20%, whilst helping to lower emissions of carbon dioxide.
MiTREC has recognised that micro-turbine biogas power generation is an appropriate technology to provide decentralised clean, affordable and resilient energy in developing countries such as Sub-Saharan African and South-Asian countries, as well as other parts of the globe.
Climate change is widely recognised as the single biggest global threat. The effects of Climate change are being seen around the world, with rising temperatures and unpredictable weather patterns. In such challenging times, it’s so refreshing to see that two of our locally based universities are playing their part in using technology to fight the effects of Climate change.
As a Chamber, we’re keen for our member businesses to join the discussion around energy, environment and sustainability. Our Energy forum is tasked with exchanging information on energy, environmental concerns and sustainability within the private sector. We’re keen for businesses to drive their policy understanding on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability and promoting the development of a sustainable economy in Staffordshire. Our Energy forum will meet again on Tuesday 13th June at 10AM. The meeting is hosted virtually on Zoom and if you would like to attend, you can book your place here: Energy , Environment and Sustainability Forum – Staffordshire Chambers
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