New Hydrogen Research Centre Opens in Wales

The University of Glamorgan in Wales will open its new hydrogen research centre today.  At the opening, the £2.2m centre at the Baglan Energy Park near Port Talbot will showcase a hydrogen-powered Nissan car, the first time it has been on display in Wales.  The Nissan FCV X-Trail has been under development in Japan for nearly a decade, and has spent over two years being tested on public roads.

Professor Dennis Hawkes, who is leading the project, said: "Rather than an isolated one-off demonstration, this centre provides the basis for a range of hydrogen and transport activities.  The new centre brings together technology and expertise and will provide a platform for new business development, growth and employment in the region."

The opening of the centre also builds on hydrogen energy projects already undertaken by the university, which launched the UK's first minibus powered by hydrogen fuel cells.

As well as being a base for research into hydrogen powered technology, the centre will also play a role in education, inviting school children to take part in activities on the site.