By Kristy Dorsey

New technology to exploit low-level wind energy is due to be deployed in Glasgow with £10,000 of backing from the Energy Technology Partnership.

Wind panels developed by green solutions provider Katrick Technologies will be deployed at Glasgow Airport and across the campus of the University of Strathclyde upon completion of a wind mapping process to determine the most suitable sites. The site analysis is due to be completed in April with pilot installations beginning thereafter.

Katrick has developed a dual-purpose wind panel and sound barrier that produces carbon-neutral energy from ground and low-level wind. The panels have been designed to tackle the decarbonisation challenges common to both airports and highways by capturing wind without the need for the significant height or scale of traditional turbines.

READ MORE: Glasgow Airport targeted by climate group 'Stay Grounded'

Launched in 2016 by Strathclyde alumni Karthik Velayutham and Vijay Madlani, Katrick’s technology will support the university and Glasgow airport owner AGS in their net zero goals before the panels are launched to the wider market.

“This is an initial step that will provide a catalyst for development by attracting large funding and investment opportunities,” Mr Madlani said.

AGS has committed to achieving net-zero by the mid-2030s, while the University of Strathclyde is deploying renewable technologies across its facilities as part of its climate-neutral districts strategy.

“Partnering with technology experts and embracing innovation is essential for AGS to meet its decarbonisation goals,” airport chief executive Derek Provan said.

“Renewable technologies have the potential to power vast amounts of on-site equipment, offset energy costs and reduce the requirement for carbon-based energy supply."