University’s bioenergy hub gets £5m to continue renewable energy research

Aston University-based Supergen Bioenergy Hub is to receive £5m to continue its exploration of the use of renewable energy.

The hub is one of three across the UK which contribute to the government’s engineering net zero priority to ensure the country benefits from clean energy research and innovation.

The successful bid was led by director of the hub and of Aston University’s Energy and Bioproducts Research Institute (EBRI), Professor Patricia Thornley.

The new funding builds on the hub’s bioenergy research which focused on accelerating current generation technologies.

Bioenergy is a significant and increasing UK renewable energy. The UK could have sufficient indigenous biomass and waste to supply over 40% of the UK’s primary energy demand.

The vision of the new impact Supergen Bioenergy Hub is to increase sustainable biomass production in the UK to minimise greenhouse gas emissions.

Established in 2018 Supergen Bioenergy Hub works with academia, industry, government and other groups to develop sustainable bioenergy systems that support the UK’s transition to an affordable, resilient, low-carbon energy future.

It’s funding comes from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), part of UK Research and Innovation.

Professor Thornley said: “Getting the right enabling environment is absolute key to unleashing the massive potential of bioenergy in the UK.

“We are delighted that UKRI – UK Research and Innovation – have recognised the ability of the world class team of investigators in this proposal to deliver a step change in the bioenergy sector.

“We look forward to working with colleagues in industry, policy and academia to incorporate new ideas and information into this exciting new programme of work.”

The grant is part of an overall investment of £55m in six national research centres to drive forward change in the energy system and help to meet the UK’s net zero target by 2050.