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Greg Barker opens National Solar Centre

The BRE National Solar Centre (NSC) has been officially opened by climate change minister Greg Barker in St Austell today (25 April) transforming the UK solar industry into a global player.

The NSC aims to drive innovation, cost reduction and increased confidence in the PV marketplace through knowledge generation.

Working with local partners, including the Eden Project, Cornwall Sustainable Building Trust, Plymouth University, and Exeter University’s Tremough campus, the centre will provide industry led research, analysis and testing and training facilities where industry experts and organisations can share knowledge, data and developments,  making the NSC a key player in the sustainable energy marketplace, both in the UK and internationally.

Speaking at the launch, Greg Barker said: “The new National Solar Centre, based in St Austell in Cornwall, will play a fundamental role in driving forward the solar industry here in the UK. Not only will work carried out by the Centre help to cut costs, improve efficiency and drive forward innovation in this sector, it will also help position the UK as a top destination for global investment in this exciting technology.”

Newly-appointed director of the NSC, Barry Marsh said: “I am delighted to be appointed at such a critical time in the industry, and look forward to working with our Founding Partners, industry stakeholders, and supporters.”