NextEnergy Center brings alternative fuels R&D to TechTown

Alternative fuel R&D firm NextEnergy recently opened its new facility in TechTown, located on Burroughs just west of Cass.

NextEnergy aims to position both Detroit and Michigan at the focal point of the emerging alternative energy industry. The nonprofit corporation was founded to advance the alternative energy technology industry in Michigan by promoting and funding R&D projects and technology commercialization.

“NextEnergy seeks to lead the nation in achieving economic security through energy diversity by bringing to commercialization a variety of alternative energy sources that, together, can make drastic reductions in our nation’s dependence on fossil fuels, including imported petroleum,” said James Croce, CEO of NextEnergy, at the opening ceremony Sept. 29.

In addition to R&D activities, NextEnergy supports alternative fuel infrastructure and development programs for hydrogen, natural gas, bio/synthetic-fuel development platforms and programs for vehicular, on-site and portable power.

NextEnergy Center is a 45,000-square-foot business and technology facility outfitted to manage alternative energy initiatives including R&D, commercialization and educational programs. The Center houses an 18,400-square-foot accelerator laboratory with eight distinct R&D labs; an 80-seat auditorium; state-of-the-art training rooms; and demonstration and exhibit space. Currently, all eight labs have been occupied, with many of the companies from out of state, helping to bring in new talent to the city.

Source:  Judith McNeeley, Director of External Relations, NextEnergy
Patricia Radice, Airfoil Public Relations