Impact
Impact on the economy
There are major economic opportunities through investing in energy research. Global energy markets are worth over a trillion dollars and set to grow. The Research Councils UK Energy Programme investment is already creating new industries, new jobs, and greater commercial opportunities for the UK.
- Ceres Power was formed in 2001 to take forward the results of fuel cell research and now employs 70 staff. The AIM-listed company is working with British Gas to develop fuel cell products for Combined Heat and Power.
Impact on policy
The Research Councils UK Energy Programme is helping the UK make evidence-based decisions and policy.
- Research funded through the programme has informed the Low Carbon Industrial Strategy (2009), the Energy White Paper (2007), and the Stern Review (2006).
- Electricity policy research is helping to develop market instruments and regulatory mechanisms.
- Major international links have been forged to address global energy challenges, for example with China on renewable energy systems and cleaner fossil fuels.
Impact on skills
The Research Councils UK Energy Programme is generating the skilled researchers and business leaders required to drive the transition to a low carbon future.
- We support more than 900 PhD students working on energy research.
- Half of our PhD graduates enter either business or the public sector within a year.
- 12 specialist centres are providing doctoral and industrial training in energy systems, low carbon technology, nuclear, renewables and demand reduction.