News | Thursday, 28th September 2023
Shadow Minister for Business and Trade visits University to discuss sustainable fuel cells
Jonathan Reynolds MP joined business leaders and researchers to help inform industrial policy
The University showcased its expertise in sustainable fuel cell technology as business leaders and the Shadow Secretary of State for Business and Trade came together to discuss new industrial strategies for the UK.
Jonathan Reynolds MP visited the University’s Manchester Fuel Cell Innovation Centre (MFCIC) for a special event to develop a focused approach for the UK in the emerging fuel cell sector.
He was joined by Vice-Chancellor Professor Malcolm Press CBE, researchers and experts from Manchester Met, as well as industry leaders from fuel cell businesses and their supply chain, vehicle manufacturers and trade bodies.
Jonathan Reynolds MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Business and Trade, said: “I was delighted to visit Manchester Metropolitan today to learn more about its excellent hydrogen fuel cell innovation centre and how the University partners with business to drive forward new technologies to support sustainable economic growth.
“It is through innovation like this that the UK and Manchester will be able to keep the country competitive while cutting carbon emissions. It was very insightful to take part in the discussions with business leaders and the University’s experts, which will help to inform and shape our direction in policy in this important area.”
As well as hearing about the opportunities from fuel cells, the shadow minister outlined his party’s approach to a UK industrial strategy.
The event was hosted by University honorary graduate Juergen Maier, Industrial Advisor to The Greater Manchester Electrochemical Hydrogen Cluster, Board Member at Riversimple – a UK hydrogen fuel cell-powered car manufacturer – and former Siemens UK CEO.
He said: “It was tremendous to be in a room with such optimistic and innovative people from the business sector, research and policy, playing a vital role in shaping the future development of UK hydrogen technologies.
“It was great to speak with the Shadow Secretary of State for Business and Trade, Jonathan Reynolds MP, and I know the event helped to provide insight into the role this innovation and collaboration with industry can play in delivering an exciting solution for zero carbon mobility.”
The University’s MFCIC is a key hub for research and knowledge transfer in this growing sector, helping to bring together businesses with innovation to develop new ideas and develop this area of the economy, while providing paths to cutting carbon emissions and researching Net Zero solutions.
Amer Gaffar, Director of MFCIC, added: “As a University we are committed to not only making ourselves more sustainable, but providing the tools and forum to bring businesses together to make these green innovations a reality.
“The Shadow Secretary of State found the visit hugely informative – getting to see the research and business potential provided by fuel cells first hand. We’re excited about the potential of helping to shape and steer policy in hydrogen fuel cells, which are an important avenue to reduce carbon emissions as we move towards a Net Zero future.”
