SES TT Zero highlights Isle of Man's clean tech business potential
The 2012 SES TT Zero race attracted key figures from the clean tech industry to the Isle of Man and helped to illustrate the many benefits the Island offers businesses in the clean tech sector, according to the Isle of Man Government.
Visitors from Europe and Japan, representing major firms such as Jaguar Land Rover, DONG Energy and REVO International, met Department of Economic Development members and teams competing in the SES TT Zero.
UK Shadow Transport Minister John Woodcock MP was also part of the delegation.
Department of Economic Development member with responsibility for Clean Tech and Energy Policy Laurence Skelly said:
“SES TT Zero is all about innovation and future vehicle technology for sustainable transport with zero carbon emissions. We were delighted with the significant interest our visitors had in the Isle of Man’s range of advantages for clean tech businesses, as well as in the TT Zero event itself.”
“The Island is an ideal location to trial new clean tech products and services and to maximise financial benefit from intellectual property. We also have a developed precision manufacturing sector which can assist with technology development and supply chain.”
Dr Ken Milne, Senior Policy Manager for Energy Policy, added:
“SES TT Zero provides an excellent opportunity with which to promote our clean tech sector, both from the point of view of potential inward investment as well as the energy saving and renewable energy initiatives that are taking place here.”
“For example, the delegation was impressed by the fact that we already have over 100 clean tech companies in the Isle of Man and that next month the Department of Infrastructure is to facilitate an ITM Power hydrogen fuel trial in the Government vehicle fleet.”
Michael Rutter won the one-lap race on a MotoCzysz, beating TT legend John McGuinness, on a Mugen, and teammate Mark Miller home. Rutter exceeded the landmark 100mph average lap, hitting more than 104mph, to collect a £10,000 prize from the Isle of Man Government. Remarkably, McGuinness and Miller also recorded laps at average speeds in excess of 100mph, showing how far the event has progressed.
Mark Guthrie, Managing Director of event sponsor SES Satellite Leasing Ltd, said:
“SES is very pleased to support the TT Zero emissions race and the clean tech sector.”
“As the premier satellite company we are always striving for new challenges. The recent announcement that SES is working with industry to develop an all electric satellite is a further commitment of the company to support the clean tech sector.”
“The SES TT Zero race was a huge success, finally breaking the elusive 100 mph lap and it continues to push the boundaries of technology.”