Aberdeen Renewable Energy Group (AREG) and the European Space Agency (ESA) have signed a memorandum of intent (MoI) to analyse, develop and implement space-enabled technology and services to support the renewable energy sector.
Under the MoI, the organisations will work together to foster the development of space-utilising applications to support technical and business innovation in the renewables sector.
They will also evaluate environmental sustainability of energy production and safety of operations.
AREG chair Jean Morrison said: “This agreement with ESA will look at the innovative technologies being developed for space activities and how we can use these learning and innovations to accelerate the development of renewable projects.
“We expect that collaborating with organisations such as ESA will bring fresh ideas and initiatives for our members as we continue to champion the energy supply chain to enable the transition to low carbon to achieve net zero emissions.”
ESA Space Solutions head of partner-led and thematic initiatives section Rita Rinaldo said: “ESA is strongly positioned to support the implementation of innovative services relying on space assets to support the renewable sector in Europe and beyond.
“We are very pleased of this cooperation with AREG that will allow us to further develop initiatives in support to green transition and create new opportunities for sustainable services.”
ESA Space Solutions aims at reaching commercial exploitation of space assets, data and capabilities addressing incubation, proving technical feasibility and business development.
This includes the development of operational services for a wide range of users through the combination of different systems, and support in creating viable companies as well as to existing companies.
AREG was founded in 2003 to support firms seeking growth within the renewables sector.
It provides opportunities for direct access to some of the industry’s largest developers through its events.
It also connects businesses with access to ground-breaking projects, both domestically and abroad, and ensures members are provided with updates on emerging opportunities in the sector.