Energy research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN) is the largest energy research institute in the Netherlands. ECN develops new technology and conducts pioneering research in various ways into innovative solutions to facilitate the transition to sustainable energy management. With around 500 members of staff, they are active in projects both at domestically and abroad, in joint efforts with the industry, government authorities and research institutes. They do this from their locations in Petten, Amsterdam and Eindhoven. ECN’s research has a major influence on day-to-day life. In this, they perform an important role for the society of today and the future.
ECN has identified seven core activities for the near term. In these fields, they see opportunities that they aim to materialise together with trade and industry, government authorities and knowledge institutes.
Solar power: together with manufacturers of solar panels, production equipment and materials, they ensure that the latest scientific insights are applied in useful concepts for solar cells, modules and processes. The challenge is to make solar power cheaper and, by doing so, make it more broadly deployable.
Wind energy: here they focus on substantially reducing the costs for offshore wind energy, through improved design of farms, turbines and turbine parts, through programmes for more efficient maintenance and by integrated application of wind farm system expertise.
Biomass: they contribute to the biobased economy, with a focus on thermochemical conversion of biomass. Areas of research include pretreatment, gasification, purification and biorefining.
Energy efficiency: for this they collaborate in making industrial processes more efficient using heat pumps, separation technology and revolutionary chemical reactors.
Environmental Assessment: ECN’s environmental programme is aimed at developing knowledge, technology and practical solutions for a healthy and sustainable environment and use of raw materials.
Engineering & Materials: here they design and create experimental installations, prototypes and high tech components. They support innovative businesses and institutions with cutting-edge technology.
Policy studies: where engineers, economists, social scientists and environmental experts work together with the technical departments to develop strategic advice.
The transition to more sustainable kinds of energy production and use forms the basis for the activities of Energy research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN). Meeting market demand is crucial for the development of new energy technology. The commercial potential of an invention and its contribution to sustainability determine whether or not ECN will work on its realisation. Industry and the business sector are involved early on in the research so that a clear picture can be gained into the commercial applicability of the technology ECN’s mission is therefore: To develop expertise and technology that enables the transition to sustainable energy management. ECN aims to be an international key player. An enterprising innovator that is an attractive partner for industry and the business sector.
