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Energy

In 2002, the Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir David King, published a review of Government support for energy research, development and demonstration activities. This was commissioned by the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry to inform the wider review of energy policy (2003). The report helped to inform the development of the 2003 Energy White Paper, and recommendations included the establishment of a new UK Energy Research Centre, which is now operational.

A further, broader review of UK energy policy is currently underway, and is due to be completed by summer 2006. Further information can be found under related links on the right-hand side of the screen.

On 25 January 2006 Sir David King joined Paul Golby, Chief Executive on Eon Energy, in launching and co-chairing a new 'Energy Research Partnership', a high-level forum of key funders of energy research and development from across the public and private sectors who are working together to give strategic direction to UK energy research, development, demonstration and deployment. More information can be found on the Energy Partnership website.: www.energyresearchpartnership.org

In a related development, the Chancellor announced in his 2006 Budget Speech the establishment of a new National Institute for Energy Research.  He said his ambition was that the Institute might be funded up to £1 billion over a lifetime of perhaps 10 years, drawing 50:50 from public and private sector investment.  The proposal remains at an early stage however and further work is underway on the details, led by the Office of Science & Innovation within DTI.