Energy Challenge Prize Announced by Premier of NSW, Australia

NSW Premier Nathan Rees has announced a new $5 million international prize to keep the State at the forefront of clean energy.

The NSW Energy Challenge Prize was announced at an inaugural University Government Business Forum held on July 20 to bring together the three sectors to find new ways to tackle global challenges faced by NSW.

"This prize signals to the rest of the world that we are serious about research and innovation and serious about a clean energy solution for NSW," Mr Rees said.

Minister for Science and Medical Research Jodi McKay said identifying research priority areas will help consolidate NSW's position as Australia's leading green, clever State.

"Having a definitive approach to research across NSW will allow us to attract greater Commonwealth and international research funding, support new jobs and emerging industries and help NSW to become a globally competitive and highly skilled workforce," Ms McKay said.

Minister for Education and Training Verity Firth said the NSW university sector made an enormous contribution to the State with 11 NSW universities employing over 25,000 staff and educating over 300,000 students.

"This Forum is about finding ways to support and extend the engagement between universities, industry and the Government for the benefit of the State," Ms Firth said.