Oil and gas process technology : the latest advances for use on offshore production installations

The JOULE-THERMIE programme was launched in 1995 as the European Union's first 'integrated' programme, bringing together the resources of the European Commission's Directorates-General XII (Science, Research and Development) and XVII (Energy). This program­me is funded by the European Union's fourth framework programme for research and technological development, one of the most extensive research funding initiatives available to European companies and research organisations. The JOULE-THERMIE programme runs until 1998 and has a total budget of 1,030 million ECU of which 566 million ECU is allocated to the THERMIE demonstration component of the programme for the support of projects and assosciated measures. THERMIE is focused on the cost-effective, environmentally-friendly and targeted demonstration and promotion of clean and efficient energy technologies. These consist of renewable energy technologies; rational use of energy in industry; buildings and transport; a clean and more efficient use of solid fuels and hydrocarbons. Essentially, THERMIE supports actions which are aimed at proving both the technologcal and economic viability and validity of energy technologies by highlighting the benefits and by assuring a wider replication and market penetration both in EU and global markets. 'The overall objective of the Community's energy policy is to help ensure security of energy supplies for European citizens and businesses at competitive prices and in an environmental compatible way. DG XVII initiates, coordinates and manages energy policy actions at European level in the fields, of solid fuels oil and gas, electricity, nuclear energy, renewable energy sources and the rational use of energy. The most impostant actions concern the security of energy supply and international energy cooperation, the integration of energy markets, the promotion of sustainable development in the energy field and finally the promotion of energy research and technological development through demonstration projects. DG XVII manages several programmes such as Synergy, SAVE, Altener and Thermie. More information is available in DG XVH'spages on Europa, the Commission's server on the World Wide Web.