A new £100m energy centre is to be created by the University of Aberdeen.

The centre of excellence in research, innovation and teaching will help to safeguard society's energy needs.

The 19,000m2 purpose-built Energy Building will see world-class, sustainable facilities that will build on the University's reputation for ground-breaking research and innovation, as well as create a modern, engaging learning environment for students.

The building's planned location is close to the Sir Duncan Rice Library, on the site at the corner of St Machar Roundabout and Bedford Road. It is thought that construction work will commence after the planned demolition of the Meston Building on the corner of Meston Walk and Elphinstone Road.

Among the areas to be studied at the new centre, will be maximising economic recovery of existing fossil fuels, carbon capture and storage, renewable energy and energy economics. Fundamental research will also be undertaken at the facility.

An 'Open Lab' outreach policy will also help to bring science to younger generations, and provide a source of inspiration for the next generation of scientists, with particular focus on attracting girls into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics subjects.

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In addition, the flexible space will also serve as a venue to host events, functions and exhibitions for the local community, industry and others.

Professor Sir Ian Diamond, Principal and Vice Chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, said: "The University of Aberdeen has a long and proud international reputation for world class research and innovation in energy and science.

"Such ground-breaking research requires cutting edge facilities, an environment that encourages cross-collaboration in different disciplines, and a 'shop front' suitable for welcoming visits from industry sponsors and other stakeholders.

"The new Energy Building seeks to meet these needs, providing state-of-the-art facilities, and much required capacity, to enhance greatly our research, teaching, collaboration and outreach activities.

"This building will provide world class facilities for our academics, students and industry partners, as well as a new home for the Aberdeen Institute of Energy; consolidating our position as a global energy university."

The investment has been welcomed by Oil & Gas UK.

Alix Thom, Oil & Gas UK's Employment and Skills Issues Manager, added: "We welcome the announcement of an ambitious new building that will bring together scientists involved in research into oil and gas exploration and enhanced oil production.

"We are also pleased to see an initiative that encourages the next generation, particularly girls, into science, technology, engineering and mathematics."

Members of the public are invited to hear more about the plans at a Public Meeting on the first floor of The Hub, located on the corner of Elphinstone Road and St Machar Drive, on Wednesday 10 December, between 6.30pm and 7.30pm.

(JP/IT)