NTU sets up Energy Research Institute, plans for more centres

Lynda Hong, Channel NewsAsia 2 Jun 09;

SINGHAPORE : The Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is setting up a broad based multi-disciplinary energy research centre that seeks to explore complex energy-related issues.

The Energy Research Institute@NTU will act as a think tank for scientists to assemble and exchange ideas across scientific disciplines.

Up to six research centres, like the S$60 million Centre for Sustainable Energy research launched on Tuesday, will be set up under the institute.

The centre will see participation of some 150 researchers - 40 professors, 40 research fellows and associates, and 75 graduate students.

It will look into the study of fuel cells, wind and tidal energy as well as energy efficiency and smart buildings.

Professor Bertil Andersson, Provost, NTU, said: "The future of energy production will involve many things. I also think it's important to combine various skills from physics, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and material science, and biology... That is the excitement about energy research." - CNA /ls/al