A three-year research project that will help the European Commission to achieve ambitious renewable energy targets, is halfway to completion, according to Bluesky, the UK-based specialist in aerial imaging and remote sensing data collection and processing.
Worth Euro 2.4 million, the project aims to support thousands of businesses across the region and help them take a world lead in the design, manufacture and installation of renewable energy technologies.

Technical coordinator and director of Bluesky, James Eddy, said: 'We are on track for a successful conclusion of this ambitious and complex project. We have already defined what data is available for this project and how each dataset will interface to create a Europe wide solution. Recent activity has focused on the processing of this data and the development of the EAGLE web portal and interface.'

The research project initially focused on the exploitation of geographic data, such as aerial photography and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), for the automatic extraction of information relating to the suitability of a property for renewable energy generation. The second element of the project, now well underway, is to create a web based portal to deliver this information to energy companies, government organisations, installers and individuals providing unbiased information.

Initially focused on solar power generation the longer term aims are to also encompass other types of renewable energy such as wind, hydro and ground source heat, making it the industry's renewables portal.

The concluding stages of the project will address the final elements of system integration and validation before moving into a testing phase. Due for completion in 2014, project partners, including Bluesky, will also be involved in marketing and promotional activities to demonstrate the EAGLE solution to potential users.

Visit www.bluesky-world.com for more information