URC investing in 'revolutionary but feasible' energy ideas

Michigan's University Research Corridor is investing up to $900,000 of its own resources in seed grants to speed the development of "revolutionary but feasible" alternative energy research. The URC, an alliance of U-M, Michigan State University and Wayne State University, will consider faculty proposals related to novel research in energy policy, materials (including nanomaterials), clean energy sources, transmission and storage of materials that is environmentally safe, cost-effective and secure. A panel of experts from the three universities will select grant recipients, giving preference to projects that show the best potential for feasibility and impact. The universities hope the seed funding will attract further interest from industry, government and foundations.