The day started with an introduction to the history of CREST by Professor Leon Freris, who was here at the very beginning. He brought back wonderful memories and reminded us all of the aspirations which led us to where we are today. Then Professor Phil Eames, the current director of CREST, brought us up to date with what research is happening currently and where it might lead in the future.

Master-classes and challenge workshops took place on subjects ranging from smart homes to carbon capture and ways to use fossil fuels responsibly, and of course, wind, solar and bioenergy. Professor Tony Marmont spoke urgently about the challenge of providing future energy sustainably and explained his new process for creating petrol from air! (Read more about Air Fuel Synthesis here.)  The challenges and master classes all inspired debates and conversations that carried on throughout the day.

Popular roof and lab tours impressed our visitors with the practical applications which are being undertaken to improve renewable energy technologies.

There were also opportunities to make a solar car, - congratulations to Martin Bliss who recorded the fastest time in the speed trial and walked off with the prize of organic flower and vegetable seeds! - your very own fruit smoothie using human power (yes, also yours!) and see the latest in-house bespoke education development for distance learners on the MSc in Renewable Energy Systems Technology in action: a PV laboratory that can be controlled by students via the Internet. 
 
The day’s event closed with a presentation by Visiting Professor Jonathon Porritt, who was introduced by Professor Bob Allison, Vice-Chancellor, and gave a talk on Sustainability Reborn: Where Next for the Sustainability Movement?  He spoke eloquently and passionately of the need to develop greater community engagement in energy projects.  Very thought provoking!

Afterwards, everyone retired to Burleigh Court to relax and enjoy the perfect summer's evening. During the gala dinner, the VC presented Professor Marmont with an inscribed glass bowl to thank him for all his support to CREST and the university over the past 20 years while his wife Angela was presented with a rose bush for their garden. They received an impromptu and well-deserved standing ovation and cut the CREST birthday cake together.  
 
Around 150 people attended the day, former students and present colleagues and partners. Great to see everyone - do stay in touch!

Images:

Top: Speakers at the event (L-R) Leon Freris, Phil Eames, Jonathon Porritt

Bottom: Not all serious! (L) making your own fruit smoothie with pedal power and (R) contemplating joining in the solar powered car challenge.

Image of Jonathon Porritt courtesy of Michal Krawczynski

This link takes you to more photos of the day taken by Michal Krawczynski