Strathclyde researchers developing new turbine systems
Researchers at the University of Strathclyde are working with Scotland’s fastest growing private firm, energy company Gaia-Wind, to develop new wind turbine systems that will enhance the technology’s efficiency.
The University’s Centre for Advanced Condition Monitoring (CACM) is working with engineers at Gaia to develop technology to maximise performance and availability for the current and future product range.
Gaia-Wind, a world-leading producer and exporter of UK manufactured farm scale wind turbines, was first in the Sunday Times’ Fast Track 100 rankings for 2012, with sales reaching £6.7 million by 2011 - a growth of 168% a year over three years.
Strathclyde Principal Professor Sir Jim McDonald paid a recent visit to the Glasgow headquarters of Gaia-Wind. He said: “Our research partnership with Gaia-Wind is developing next generation tools and solutions to enhance Scotland’s reputation as a world leader in renewable energy.
“The University of Strathclyde has a proud tradition of applied research and is an acknowledged leading international technological university. Our founding principles are demonstrated in strong collaboration with strategic industrial partners to ensure that our world-class research makes a significant impact on the challenges facing the renewable energy sector through technological innovation.”
Dr Francis Quail, Director of CACM said: “The novel research is focused on technologies that will assist Gaia-Wind in its ambitious growth plans and is now underway, as engineers at the University work together with the industrial partner in several research projects.”
Johnnie Andringa, Chief executive at Gaia-Wind said: “As energy prices continue to rise, development of the efficiency and reliability of our small wind turbines becomes even more important.
“At Gaia-Wind, our technology group has been engaged across a broad agenda of research and development. We are delighted to be part of this exciting partnership which allows us to work together with a leading academic research team to develop these novel systems.”
CACM’s test resources will become part of the University’s new £89 million Technology and Innovation Centre – a world-leading research centre bringing together academics and industrialists in the heart of Glasgow.
CACM is also part of the Scottish Energy Laboratory, which was launched to strengthen collaboration across Scotland’s key test and demonstration facilities. The network of facilities has a combined investment value of £250 million across all key energy sectors and will be a hub for national and international companies to identify and access the most appropriate of Scotland’s test and demonstration facilities for their technologies.
The University of Strathclyde was named UK University of the Year in the 2012 Times Higher Education Awards. Judges described the University as a “bold, imaginative and innovative institution”, praising its close links with business and industry and its commitment to making an impact on the global economy.
