What is mission & vision all about?
- Advancing applied energy research and innovation with scientific excellence and a clear focus on real-world impact.
- Driving the energy transition through solutions that are sustainable, efficient and accessible to all.
- Connecting research, industry and society to accelerate knowledge transfer and foster a thriving innovation ecosystem.
- Contributing to a resilient, climate neutral energy future in Catalonia, across Europe and on the global stage.
The Catalonia Institute for Energy Research (IREC) was founded in July 2008 as an initiative of the Generalitat de Catalunya. Since its inception, IREC has been committed to contributing to a more sustainable future through excellent research and innovation in the field of energy. Working closely with public administrations and the industrial sector, IREC strives to accelerate a local and global energy transition that delivers a more sustainable, equitable and inclusive society.
IREC is a CERCA centre, part of the Generalitat de Catalunya’s framework to support and grow outstanding and competitive research and innovation in Catalonia. IREC also holds the TECNIO accreditation as a centre for the development of energy technologies.
As a public institution forming part of the institutional public sector of the Generalitat de Catalunya, IREC is attached to the Departament de Territori, Habitatge i Transició Ecològica and the Departament de Recerca i Universitats.
IREC’s mission
To pursue research, development, innovation and demonstration of sustainable energy solutions that are affordable and accessible to all. We aim to contribute to local and global climate neutrality strategies by accelerating society s energy and ecological transition, whilst promoting energy efficient processes, supporting large scale electrification, driving decarbonisation, and advancing a renewable driven circular economy.
IREC’s vision
To be a leading centre of excellence in energy research and innovation, ensuring a future where society prospers through sustainable, abundant and affordable energy. Grounded in real world needs, we lead transformative research and foster systemic innovation in collaboration with industry, governments and social actors, from Catalonia to the global stage.
IREC’s Strategic GoalsIREC’s Strategic Goals
IREC’s strategic goals set out a clear and forward looking roadmap for the institute s development as a leading centre in applied energy research and innovation. Rooted in scientific excellence and a firm commitment to societal impact, they guide everything IREC does, from fundamental research to real world deployment, in direct response to the global challenges of decarbonisation and the energy transition.
Advance the development of innovative energy technologies and solutions, addressing global sustainability challenges and supporting the transition towards a cleaner, more efficient and decarbonised energy system.
Strengthen collaboration between research centres, industry and public institutions to maximise knowledge transfer, accelerate innovation processes and ensure real world impact across different sectors.
Promote a multidisciplinary and integrated approach that combines technological, environmental and social perspectives to effectively tackle complex energy challenges.
Enhance IREC’s international standing as a leading reference in energy research and innovation, increasing its visibility, influence and active participation in global initiatives and strategic projects.