The University of Salford Energy House (click to enlarge)

Devices which use solar power to open and close windows and doors, and a simple fitting which makes sure the hot water coming out of your tap is warm straight away, are among the innovations developed by regional businesses and tested at the University’s Energy Hub.

In total, eight companies will be sharing a large exhibition space with the University at the Manchester Central exhibition centre alongside thousands of delegates and business interested in sustainable building and refurbishment.

The University’s presence at GreenBuild Expo is part of Salford’s commitment to supporting low carbon industries in the North West using expert consultancy, the creation of networking groups and developing low cost test facilities.

These include the University’s Energy House – a unique full-scale house constructed in an environmental testing chamber – and a newly opened solar research centre.  All of these facilities are open to businesses at a free or reduced cost.

Jon Crossley, the Managing Director of Dyer Environmental Controls Ltd worked with the University to develop Solis, a solar powered motorised chain actuator that is used to open windows and doors, and will be exhibiting a new product this year. “Teaming with Salford University at Green Build 2012 was a great success”, he said. “Being part of a joint supplier stand created a real buzz that sparked the delegates’ intrigue.

“Introducing Solis as part of the University’s presentation slot was very effective, following on from the presentation, delegates specifically came over to strike up conversations about the product. The overall presentation of the University’s stand was slick, professional and did well in creating a welcoming feel for the delegates.” 

The University’s experts will also be occupying several speaking slots.  These include talks, based on the latest research, about monitoring energy use in buildings, driving low carbon innovation and a full day of training and product seminars.

University of Salford Energy Hub Manager, Steve Waterworth said: “A huge part of our work at Salford is helping businesses in our region and further afield develop products and services that will advance the low carbon agenda.  We feel that it’s very important to exhibit these successes both to help those companies and spread the word about what we can offer.

“I very much hope that companies will get in touch at GreenBuild Expo and talk to us about what we do.”

For more information on GreenBuild Expo go to: http://www.greenbuildexpo.co.uk/

Companies on the University of Salford stand are:

• Furlong Innovations
• Eco Mech
• Eco Gen
• Acre Moss
• Dyer Environmental
• Tyrrell
• Rain Catcher
• Discrete Heat

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