Green energy key in $10m ECU labs

Research into green energy and local manufacturing is set for a boost with the opening of Edith Cowan University’s new $10 million engineering laboratories.

The new facilities, located at the university’s Joondalup campus, will include an advanced manufacturing hub, renewable energy lab and a sustainable energy and resources lab.

Local manufacturing capabilities that will be explored at these labs will include enabling prototyping and production of critical components in the manufacturing industry, while energy technologies explored with include grid control technologies and research into carbon capture and storage hardware.

ECU vice chancellor Steve Chapman said the facilities were aligned with industry and the state government’s commitment to boost local manufacturing and sustainable energy.

“Combined with ECU’s world-class research and industry-focused expertise, these new laboratories aim to offer creative answers to our world’s most challenging and pressing questions,” he said.

“The laboratories reinforce our commitment to engaging with industry to provide remarkable outcomes for them but also delivering real-world experience and connections for our students.”

In addition, South32 has donated a 3D printer from its Worsley alumina operations to the university’s advanced manufacturing hub, which will be used to conduct research into the production of sustainable, high-quality metal components.

Erwin Schaufler, vice president of South32’s Worsley alumina operations, said these components will have practical uses in a low carbon future.

“The research being undertaken at Edith Cowan University, supported by South32, will help Australian industry to be at the forefront of change,” he said.