The research team will focus on integrated infrastructure design and create innovative approach of optimization of utilities design as well as Operation Performance Contracting.

“The opening of this ENGIE Lab is a key milestone of the development strategy of ENGIE in China to contribute to the energy revolution supported by Chinese authorities,” said Charlotte Roule, ENGIE China Chief Executive Officer. Ben Schwegler will be the scientific director of the new entity. A scientist who shares now his time between ENGIE and Stanford where he is teaching, Ben is also a specialist of the Chinese research and innovation landscape. He  previously worked in this field for Disney.

ENGIE Lab China is the latest addition to the strong international R&D network of the Group, which now includes 7 international research centers. “China’s dynamic innovation ecosystem and global leadership in renewable energy investment provide the right environment for us to set up this leading-edge R&D center. We will develop these innovative solutions to meet the energy challenges not only in China but also in the world, we are very pleased to welcome these new colleagues,” said Isabelle Moretti, ENGIE Group Chief Scientific Officer. The first technical meeting between the Crigen specialists and the Chinese Lab took place last Tuesday to discuss the first developments that will be related to building modeling under the supervision of Bernard Blez, head of Crigen.

With ENGIE already spanning activities in China in renewable power, green mobility, and Smart City solutions, the formal opening of ENGIE Lab China paves the way for further new energy developments in China and the region and further partnerships in the field of low-carbon innovations.