Rensselaer marked the opening of the Center for Future Energy Systems, a New York State Center for Advanced Technology. The new $20 million research center, in partnership with Cornell University and Brookhaven National Laboratory, seeks to meet the energy challenges of the 21st century by focusing on innovation in and commercialization of energy conservation and renewable energy systems.

"The need for an adequate supply of affordable, accessible, sustainable energy is the overarching issue of the 21st century. Energy security is the 'space race' of this millennium," said President Jackson. "But we cannot just drill our way to energy security, we must innovate our way to energy security, which is why the research taking place at the Rensselaer Center for Future Energy Systems is so vital. Our goal is to make New York state a world leader in energy research and a powerful generator of energy-related businesses and

jobs. We applaud Governor Pataki, Senator Bruno, the legislature, and NYSTAR for their leadership in providing the spark that will ignite this powerful collaboration among New York state universities, industry, and government."

Rensselaer President Shirley Ann Jackson was joined by New York State Lieutenant Governor Mary Donohue, State Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno, New York State Office of Science, Technology, and Academic Research (NYSTAR) Executive Director Russell Bessette, Plug Power Chief Operating Officer Greg Silvestri, and Rensselaer Vice President for Research Omkaram "Om" Nalamasu, along with researchers, business partners, and members of the campus community for the kickoff event.

Research at the new Center for Future Energy Systems will focus on renewable energy and energy conservation systems, with an initial emphasis on fuel cells and the hydrogen economy, smart lighting, smart displays, and emerging renewable energy systems. Future research priorities will track new scientific developments and marketplace opportunities. The opening event included displays by Rensselaer and Brookhaven researchers and students.

New York State Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno said: "With this new Center for Advanced Technology at Rensselaer, we are continuing our commitment to developing a world-class economy right here in Tech Valley and the Capital Region — an economy that creates endless opportunities for high-tech entrepreneurs to create new jobs and new research investments. The working partnership between state government, higher education, and the private sector is truly making a difference for the Capital Region. I applaud Rensselaer for being on the cutting edge of scientific research and for contributing so much to our local economy."

Rensselaer has been awarded up to $10 million in state funds, through NYSTAR, to create the center, in partnership with Cornell University and the Brookhaven National Laboratory. Rensselaer has a goal of matching the state funds with an additional $10 million or more in industry and federal support for its energy research.

Read press release.

Published June 13, 2005