Welcome Remarks

Abstract

At Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN), we take pride in expanding new ideas and promoting lifelong knowledge. UNITEN has an academic environment where exceptional students and scholars worldwide can be inspired to excel in their fields of study and research. The BOLD 2020 strategic plan for Universiti Tenaga Nasional represents a commitment to improving quality, and an aspiration to be recognised among the leading institutions of higher learning in Malaysia and in the rest of the world.Sustainable research in the energy sector is one of the key agenda of UNITEN. This is clearly worded in its mission statement as; “We strive to advance knowledge and learning experience through research and innovation that will best serve human society”. BOLD 2020 has also set a goal for Advancing Research in the Energy Industry, in line with UNITEN as “The National Energy University”. UNITEN’s commitment in promoting research activities is evident from the amount of research undertaken that continues to increase year after year.The Centre for Renewable Energy, CRE, was established by UNITEN, as a centre of excellence for research and development in Renewable Energy. The core of CRE's strategic direction is in research and development programmes mainly in understanding renewable resources for energy, to the conversion of these resources to renewable electricity and fuels. CRE has established its core strength through continuous, innovative and excellent research achievements. CRE provides a sustainable platform for strategic partnerships between the authorities, industry and academia into greater achievements in national renewable energy development with the vision to be the leading centre of excellence and regional knowledge hub in renewable energy. The centre's pool of scientists and researchers support critical market objectives to accelerate research from scientific innovations to market-viable alternative energy solutions. The centre thereby directly contributes to our nation's goal for finding new renewable ways to power our homes, industries, businesses, and transportation.My heartiest congratulations to CRE and the ICARET 2016 Organizing Committee for putting together this important event, providing an intellectual forum for exchange of knowledge and information in the development of renewable energy (RE), and its related enabling technologies. The outcomes and proceedings of the conference will be an important input to the Nation’s effort on Green Technology and Renewable Energy implementation.I would like to take this opportunity to welcome all participants and wish all of you the very best in your deliberations and discussions on this important topic of renewable energy.Thank you.