UK innovation centres focus on green and renewable energy

Business Secretary Vince Cable has announced a competition for a technology and innovation centre focusing on wind, wave and tidal power.

The Offshore Renewable Energy centre is part of a Government campaign to spend £220million over the next four years and establish a network of at least six centres. "In creating an offshore renewable energy technology and innovation centre we are taking the next step to transforming the UK into a low carbon economy," said Cable. "There is a clear opportunity for the Government to support the UK's offshore industry and this centre will be of great benefit to the sector and the economy." The Government also plans to invest £20m in two clean technology funds: Zouk Cleantech 2 and HG Capital Renewable Power Partners 2 as part of its £325m UK Innovation Investment Fund. The funds will support companies working on alternative energy generation, renewable energy infrastructure including wind farms, energy efficiency and water treatment and conservation.