SSE welcomes opening of Scotland’s first electricity grid research centre

Scottish and Southern Energy Power Distribution (SSEPD) welcomes the opening of the University of Strathclyde’s Power Networks Demonstration Centre (PNDC).

The centre, which was officially opened today by First Minister Alex Salmond, is a joint venture between the University of Strathclyde, SSEPD, ScottishPower Energy Networks, Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Funding council.

Located in Cumbernauld, the centre is the first of its kind in Europe and has been established in response to growing demands for secure, reliable and environmentally-friendly electricity across the globe.

The PNDC aims to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies and convert ideas and research into low carbon solutions for the electricity industry of the future.

The world-class centre is home to researchers, engineers and industry specialists who are developing new research and technologies, from advanced grid control schemes to intelligent sensor systems, in the facility’s controlled and safe environment.

The 900-square-metre building is equipped with high quality, innovative control and simulations systems and is home to a real-life, reconfigurable power network independent from the national grid.

First Minister Alex Salmond said: "This is a truly world-class research centre and the first of its kind in Europe, clearly reinforcing that Scotland is leading the way when it comes to the new ideas, new solutions and new practices that will help us meet the electricity and energy needs of the future.

"Smart grid technologies are increasingly important as we move to a low-carbon economy, helping to reduce energy waste and making it easier for homes and businesses to generate their own renewable energy. Our ambitious plans for this sector demonstrate that it has the potential to create up to 12,000 jobs by 2020.

"I am therefore delighted to open this hugely innovative research centre, which is a fantastic example of researchers, engineers and industry specialists working together to improve energy efficiency. This firmly puts Scotland at the forefront of smart electrical technologies and setting new standards in electrical distribution."

Stuart Hogarth, Director of Distribution at Scottish and Southern Energy Power Distribution, said: "We are very proud to be founding members of the Power Networks Demonstration Centre. Scottish and Southern Energy Power Distribution has a dynamic programme of Research and Development focussed on improving the networks, many of these using "Smart Grid" technologies.   Partnership working is an important part of our approach and by collaborating with stakeholders from academia, industry, the public and the third sector we can ensure our projects are relevant and provide real benefits."

Dr Iliana Portugues, Director, Power Networks Demonstration Centre, said: "The challenges faced by the electricity industry are global and will require significant changes to the way we operate networks. One belief shared amongst all our founders is that this change, along with all the uncertainty and discomfort, really does bring opportunity. Our aim, as a group, is not to accept change passively, but to lead it and to manage it creatively.

"Initiatives such as the Power Networks Demonstration Centre achieve this through a new type of collaboration, one which does not affect objectivity, independence or uniqueness. For the health of our individual enterprises, for the good of the society we serve, and the fortunes of those who follow us."