The University of Glasgow has announced the launch of the Glasgow Centre for Sustainable Energy, a research center dedicated to advancing solutions and research in the transition to sustainable, low-carbon energy systems. The center aims to facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration among academics and develop innovative approaches to achieve the radical reform of energy services and infrastructure necessary to achieve net-zero emissions. With a focus on finding equitable and affordable ways to meet global energy needs without contributing to climate change, the center will leverage the University’s extensive experience in renewable energy research.
Research conducted at the Glasgow Centre for Sustainable Energy will explore adaptive, diversified, and resilient technologies for the supply, storage, distribution, and efficient use of renewable energy. Additionally, the center will analyze how these new net-zero solutions can intersect with the social, political, and economic transformations required for sustainable energy transitions. A key consideration for the center will be ensuring that future energy solutions are accessible to all, developed in partnership with citizens, and capable of withstanding the challenges posed by a rapidly-changing planet.
To support its mission, the Glasgow Centre for Sustainable Energy will forge partnerships with communities, governments, and industries both within the UK and around the world. The center will build on existing relationships with influential decision-makers such as the United Nations, the European Union, and UK Research & Innovation.
Heading the new center is Professor Gioia Falcone, who holds the rank of Rankine Chair of Energy Engineering at the University’s James Watt School of Engineering. Professor David Flynn serves as the Centre’s Associate Director. Speaking on the significance of the center, Professor Falcone emphasized the importance of sustainable and accessible energy provisions, acknowledging both the value and challenges presented by the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
The establishment of the Glasgow Centre for Sustainable Energy aligns with the University of Glasgow’s commitment to addressing the climate crisis and fostering a just transition. The center will contribute to the development of sustainable energy technologies that can be integrated into comprehensive whole-system pathways. The College of Science and Engineering, headed by Professor Dame Muffy Calder, highlights the University’s legacy of influential energy and physical sciences research. Inspired by the work of notable figures like James Watt, Lord Kelvin, William Rankine, and Joseph Black, the center is poised to tackle future challenges and help create a low-carbon world necessary for achieving net-zero goals.
The launch of the Glasgow Centre for Sustainable Energy marks a significant step forward in the University of Glasgow’s efforts to lead the global charge towards sustainable and low-carbon energy systems. Through collaborative research, partnerships, and innovation, the center aims to contribute to the decision-making processes surrounding the transition to a low-carbon future. The University’s commitment to finding solutions to society’s biggest challenges is evidenced by its continued dedication to research, education, and partnerships in the pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.
