UK Government funds research on energy efficient air conditioning
The UK Government has given the green light to new research on more energy and cost-efficient air conditioning systems for planes, trains and buildings. The NECST (New Environmental Control System Technology) project will receive a sum of GPB 400,000 (€ 599,000) from the Government, which will be matched by a group of leading international companies in the field. Over the next two years, partners in the project will work on the design of a suite of interactive computerised design tools, covering environmental systems, power systems, buildings and enclosures. These will assist in the development of new air-conditioning technology. 'Developing this potentially ground-breaking technology could be great news for the environment with huge potential to help cut carbon emissions in this area,' said UK Science and Innovation Minister Malcolm Wicks. Air-conditioning systems in aircraft consume an estimated 4% of total fuel burnt, and cooling systems in buildings and trains are also big energy consumers. 'Working with industry to develop the products we'll need in the future will also help us maintain our position as the world leader in high value technologies,' he added. The project is part of the National Aerospace Technology Strategy, which focuses on research and development where the UK aerospace industry could compete globally over the next 20 years.
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