Birmingham announced as location for the new Energy Systems Catapult

18th March 2015

The new Energy Systems Catapult will be located in Birmingham. The Energy Technologies Institute will merge their existing Smart Systems and Heat Programme currently based in Birmingham into the new Catapult. 

It is expected that the Catapult will open at the ETI's existing office at Birmingham Business Park, before finding a permanent location in the Birmingham area.

The new Catapult will be focused on exploiting the commercial opportunities for new technology-based products and services created by the transformation and improvement of energy networks – electricity, combustible gases and heat.

Based in Birmingham, it will benefit from being closely located to a hub of energy systems focused private, public and academic organisations as well as good transport links to other parts of the UK where it expects to be involved in energy systems testing and demonstration.

The new technology and innovation centre is set to open in April 2015.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said:

"The Energy Systems Catapult will make Britain the best place in the world to develop new energy products and services, like local energy systems that can provide an alternative source of power to the national grid. Locating the Catapult in Birmingham puts it right at the heart of a vibrant energy hub that will bring researchers and businesses together – a key component of bringing new and innovative ideas to market."

Universities, Science and Cities Minister Greg Clark said:

"Locating the Energy Systems Catapult in Birmingham will build on the excellent work the Energy Technologies Institute has already delivered. This puts the Catapult in a strong starting position to exploit the commercial opportunities for new technology-based products that address the needs for sustainable, affordable and secure energy - growing the UK energy sector, generating economic growth and creating jobs."

Energy Systems Catapult Chairman Nick Winser said:

"The Birmingham area has a strong cluster of businesses and academic activity related to energy, as well as excellent transport links to the many organisations with which we will work right across the UK. The advanced discussions with the ETI to merge their existing Birmingham based team into the Catapult provides us with the opportunity to make a strong start."

ETI CEO Dr David Clarke adds:

"We welcome the establishment of the Catapult to bring additional focus to meeting the needs of the UK energy system for today and tomorrow. Our Smart Systems and Heat programme has built the knowledge and capability to design functional long-term local area heating solutions. It is already working with Local Authorities in Bridgend, Manchester and Newcastle, and importantly this engagement with the Energy Systems Catapult allows for that work to continue beyond the end of our current operating model in 2017."