The recent visit by an Irish and Welsh delegation to Swansea University highlighted ongoing cross-border collaborations in energy research. Professor Helen Griffiths, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation at Swansea University, welcomed the guests.
During the visit, delegates toured the Energy Safety Research Institute (ESRI), where they learned about innovative projects led by Professor Serena Margadonna and Professor Ian Masters. Professor Margadonna's work focuses on developing next-generation sodium-ion battery technologies at the Energy Storage Laboratory. This initiative aims to provide low-cost, sustainable energy solutions. The project is a collaboration with the University of Limerick and is supported by the Wales Innovation Network. It combines Swansea's engineering expertise with Limerick's materials design innovation to enhance regional supply chains in both nations.
Professor Masters leads research on offshore renewable energy at the Marine Energy Laboratory. His work includes wind, wave, and tidal power studies. Collaboration with University College Cork through the Selkie Interreg Ireland Wales project has facilitated cross-border cooperation and commercialization of ocean energy technologies in Welsh and Irish waters around the Irish Sea. Over 100 organizations have participated in knowledge transfer efforts to support industrial stakeholders and assist Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in ocean energy towards commercialization.
Professor Griffiths remarked: "We were delighted to welcome the Tánaiste and First Minister of Wales, to our campus for a visit that underscores the vital role of cross-border cooperation in advancing clean energy technologies and building a resilient, sustainable future for both Wales and Ireland."
First Minister Eluned Morgan also attended the event.