FLEXIS (Flexible Integrated Energy Systems) is a £24 million research operation designed to develop an energy systems research capability in Wales which will build on the world class capability that already exists, including that in coal mining geology.
The operation is led by Cardiff University, Swansea University and the University of South Wales and is being delivered in two geographical areas; West Wales and the Valleys, and East Wales. FLEXIS has received £15 million in funding support through the Welsh European Funding Office (WEFO).
The aim of FLEXIS is to create a culture of research and innovation across Wales so that we are known across the world as a leader in energy systems technology. To enable the UK to meet its climate change commitments, energy systems will need to be developed that enable decarbonisation of our energy supply, whilst ensuring its security and affordability.
Fuel poverty, particularly amongst the elderly, is of growing importance as energy prices increase to accommodate ever more complex renewable energy systems and the associated new infrastructure. Flexis aims to tackle the socio-economic aspects of this challenge including public perceptions and communication about energy research and development, and the associated costs and benefits.
The research is based on a series of main pillars, including:
- Sustainability;
- Security of Energy Supply;
- Socioeconomic Issues.
You can hear Peter Brabham of Cardiff University explaining some of the coal mining geology related opportunities here (University of Leeds/Engineering Group meeting):
