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£1bn energy institute will be a public-private partnership

01 October, 2006

£1bn energy institute will be a public-private partnership

The British Government has announced plans for a £1bn energy research institute whose cost it will share with the private sector. The Energy Technologies Institute, which is expected to start operating in 2008, is intended to deliver sustainable and secure energy technologies for the long term.

As well as conducting research into large and small scale energy supply technologies, the Institute is expected to devote some of its resources to end-use efficiency and demand management.

The Government says it will commit £500m to the institute over the next decade and is looking for a similar commitment from the private sector. BP, EDF, e.on UK and Shell have already offered support.

Trade and Industry Secretary Alistair Darling describes the ETI as "the most important development in UK energy research and innovation for decades". He says that, by bringing together the efforts and investments of both the public and private sectors, "the Institute will have the potential to make a huge impact".

Darling is encouraging companies of all sizes to take part in the initiative. "I want more companies to come forward and join us in this groundbreaking partnership and be part of this unique venture," he says.