Internet giant says it aims to accelerate the pace at which clean energies are developing

Google yesterday launched a project to produce cheaper energy. The RE<C initiative is investing in research on renewable energy sources to find a less expensive alternative to coal.

The internet giant will hire a number engineers and energy experts who will commence the project with research into solar thermal technology. Future research will look at wind power and geothermal systems.

The company announced it would spend “tens of millions (of dollars) on research and development and related investments” within the next year.

Google co-founder, Larry Page, said: “Our new initiative isn’t just about Google’s energy needs; we're seeking to accelerate the pace at which clean energy technologies are developing, so they can rival the economics of coal quickly.”

His colleague Sergey Brin added: “Cheap renewable energy is not only critical for the environment but also vital for economic development in many places where there is limited affordable energy of any kind."

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