Astec Solutions of Rugeley are participating in Keele University’s Smart Energy Network Demonstrator (SEND)* programme to investigate data analytics solutions focused on smart energy applications.

Astec has been delivering automation and production software solutions into the manufacturing and utilities sectors for over 17 years and employs 27 people.  They now plan significant growth over the next five years by providing solutions which improve customers’ efficiency by unlocking information within the vast quantities of data collected during day-to-day operations.

The project will see Astec work closely with the academic specialists at Keele University and utilise  the University’s large, varied campus and smart energy network to develop commercial product solutions.  Astec will use GE’s Predix Platform to collect and analyse data through the development of apps and micro services.

Astec’s Managing Director, Andy Tripp, said: “By identifying previously hidden patterns and relationships in data, we hope to develop products which will have a positive impact on customers’ efficiency and cost base.”

Commentating on the tie-up, SEND Director Professor Zhong Fan, said: “Astec is a great example of the technology companies in Staffordshire now poised to exploit the potential of the Internet of Things, and our collaboration with them will be of mutual benefit.”

Keele University is at the forefront of smart energy networks and through its SEND programme is seeking further partners from across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent who want to develop a broad range of new products and services for smart energy networks.  Companies benefit from a full-time person for research, development and innovation for three yearsm, as well as access to the University’s smart network, the expertise of University specialists and other SEND partners.  Interested companies should contact the University’s Business Gateway on 01782 733001 or  business.gateway@keele.ac.uk.

For further information about Astec Solutions, please visit their website: www.astecsolutions.com

*The SEND project (ref: 32R16P00706) is part-funded from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds England Growth Programme 2014-2020, and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).