|
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Pete Visclosky today announced that he has secured $8 million for energy technology research and development and deployment in Northwest Indiana. Purdue University Calumet will receive $7 million for research and development projects and Munster will receive $1 million to deploy its waste-to-energy cogeneration project. The funding is included in Visclosky’s Fiscal Year 2009 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, which was approved by the House Appropriations Committee on June 25. The bill must be approved by both the House and Senate before it can be signed into law by the President.
“The research and development and deployment of new energy technologies is the key to solving our current energy woes,” said Visclosky. “I believe that America can invest and invent its way out of the energy crisis and these particular investments help make sure that Northwest Indiana plays an important role in inventing new energy solutions. It is a great stride toward a stronger economy, a cleaner environment, and a more secure nation.”
$7 Million for Research and Development Projects at Purdue University Calumet
Purdue University Calumet’s $7 million includes $5 million for the Center for Computational Simulation and Visualization, $1 million for the Inland Water Institute, and $1 million for hydrogen technologies research. The three efforts are engaged in cutting-edge research utilizing high technology to develop solutions to important energy-related problems.
“Purdue University Calumet is leading the way to important energy technologies,” said Visclosky. “This funding for three of the University’s research and development programs will help us conquer the energy crisis and lead to more new economy jobs in Northwest Indiana.”
The Center for Computational Simulation and Visualization utilizes advanced technology applications for research and educational purposes. The $5 million will help it expand its state-of-the-art tools and equipment to perform more-advanced research and become a superior teaching aide.
The Inland Water Institute will use the $1 million to extend its research into developing a sensing strategy in order to protect the security of key water infrastructure. The Institute is developing a detection system that would utilize a sensor network, data communication, data mining, and data fusion to create a high-accuracy intrusion, damage, and toxic contamination warning system that keeps infrastructure safe. Last year Visclosky secured $492,000 for the Institute.
The hydrogen technologies research program will use its $1 million to continue research into utilizing hydrogen as a commercial fuel source. The funding will help complete basic research and technology demonstration that will lead to commercialization so that clean-burning hydrogen can become a viable fuel source. Last year Visclosky secured $984,000 for the Program.
“We are very appreciative of Congressman Visclosky’s support for innovative technologies that can meet the long term needs of our region, our state and the nation,” said Howard Cohen, Chancellor of Purdue University Calumet. “At Purdue Calumet, through the Water Institute and the Energy Center we are researching the technologies that can both help assure the quality and reliability of our natural resources and, at the same time, protect and preserve our environment. Our planned Master’s Degree in Modeling and Simulation will help Northwest Indiana develop and retain the talented, highly-educated, workforce that can continue this creative work for generations to come. Congressman Visclosky’s commitment to our efforts helps keep Purdue and Purdue Calumet on the forefront of applied research and innovation.”
$1 Million for Deployment of Munster Waste to Energy Cogeneration Project
The $1 million for Munster will be used to construct and equip a methane gas cogeneration plant. The cogeneration plant will convert methane gas from waste and refuse into electricity for the local power grid, providing an environmentally-friendly source of local energy. Last year Visclosky secured $1.97 million for the Munster cogeneration project.
“The Munster cogeneration plant is a step in the right direction for Northwest Indiana,” said Visclosky. “By building a local, green energy source that contributes to our power grid we are reducing our dependence on foreign energy, protecting our environment, and, best of all, investing in Northwest Indiana.”
“Thanks to Congressman Visclosky, methane gas generated at the former landfill site in Munster will not be wasted, but will be used to generate electricity that will power facilities at the new Centennial Park and elsewhere in town,” said Dave Shafer, Clerk Treasurer for the Town of Munster. “The Town of Munster looks forward to showcasing our ‘green’ project.”
“It’s very important now that we develop alternative methods of generating energy,” said Helen Brown, President of the Munster Town Council. “We’re delighted that Congressman Visclosky shares our excitement about the methane project at Centennial Park, especially since he can translate that into real dollars that turn the project into a reality.” |
|
|
