Energy experts from the US State of Oregon have visited Holywell Park to exchange innovative ideas and share best practice on driving forward the low carbon economy during a day of meetings with energy companies organised by CENEX, the Centre for Excellence in Low carbon and Fuel Cell Technologies.

Loughborough, 22 September 2008 - Energy experts from the US State of Oregon have visited Holywell Park to exchange innovative ideas and share best practice on driving forward the low carbon economy during a day of meetings with energy companies organised by CENEX, the Centre for Excellence in Low carbon and Fuel Cell Technologies.

Michael Grainey, Director of Oregon's Department of Energy and Nancy Hamilton, the Governor of Oregon's senior policy adviser met with Robert Evans, CEO of CENEX; Adam Morton, the Chief of Low Carbon Technology at Rolls Royce; Dr John Moore, Director of Communications at Intelligent Energy: Rupert Gammon, Director of Bryte Energy and Chair of the British Midlands Hydrogen Forum and also toured Loughborough University's Centre for Renewable Systems Technology.

Issues under discussion included a review of developments in fuel cell technology, the integration of hydrogen with renewables and innovations in procurement of low carbon vehicles.

The two visitors from Oregon were also given the opportunity to drive two of CENEX's smart electric vehicles around the campus.

Nancy Hamilton said: "We were impressed by the level of innovative activity taking place in the East Midlands and the close level of co-operation between different companies who are promoting practical solutions to the needs of the low carbon economy."

Michael Grainey said: "The State of Oregon is a strong supporter of renewable energies and our business energy tax credit scheme is the leader in the US in providing incentives for companies involved in renewable energy. Oregon is already the No 1 consumer market in the US for hybrid vehicles. Given our current review of opportunities for electric cars and other low carbon vehicles within the State, we were fascinated to learn how CENEX is championing advancements in low carbon vehicles in the UK."

Robert Evans, CEO of CENEX said:
"Especially given its reputation as a leader in environmental technology in the U.S., the collaboration and knowledge sharing with experts from Oregon will be of mutual benefit. This visit is a good example of CENEX's commitment to a greater understanding of sharing best practice in ensuring the development and take up of low carbon vehicles linked to renewable energy sources."