The national Enterprise Connect Clean Energy Innovation Centre (CEIC) will be opened today at Newcastle Innovation.

The CEIC will deliver specialist advice and services to small-to-medium enterprises in the clean energy sector.

Backed by $20 million in funding from the Australian Government, the Centre is being hosted by Newcastle Innovation - the commercial arm of the University.

Newcastle Innovation CEO Dr Brent Jenkins said the Centre would be critical to the commercialisation of clean energy technology in the Hunter region and nationally.

"The University of Newcastle is a leader in clean energy research and the Centre will leverage its expertise and strategic partnerships with other research bodies across Australia," he said.

"It will provide access to specialist facilities and advice at the University to turn innovative ideas into new products, test products for new markets, help firms become export-ready and provide grants to address areas of weakness."

The Enterprise Connect CEIC will be located at Newcastle Innovation on the University of Newcastle's Callaghan campus. It will be home to a Director and up to six staff. Newcastle Innovation will also appoint three specialist staff to provide complementary services.

The CEIC is a partnership between Newcastle Innovation, Enterprise Connect, the Australian Institute for Commercialisation and the Western Australia Sustainable Energy Association.

Media opportunity: Senator Kim Carr, Minister for Innovation, Industry, Science and Research, will open the Centre this morning.

Time: 11am
Place: Industry Development Centre, University Drive, Callaghan (in the grounds of the University.)
For interviews: Dr Brent Jenkins, CEO, Newcastle Innovation on 4921 8777.