Battelle and Petronas sign agreement to set up renewable energy laboratory in Malaysia

Battelle and PETRONAS signed an agreement yesterday to build and operate a landmark Renewable Energy Laboratory in Malaysia. Also partnering in the effort at Battelle-Japan and the Mitsubishi Corporation.

Under the agreement the entities plan to construct a laboratory scheduled to open in 2011. The Renewable Energy Laboratory will conduct research on renewable energy areas including biomass conversion; fuel cells; solar, hydrogen, and ocean energy. The first phase of research will include focus on biochemicals, biofuels, and bioproducts largely focusing on the palm oil industry.