Axiomlab, the innovative technology investor and business builder, plans to unlock a treasure chest of intellectual property in the energy sector.

It is announcing today the creation of Energetix Group, which will focus on developing new energy technologies such as fuel cells, micro-turbines, photovoltaic cells and flywheels.

The business is a joint venture with Energetic Communications, a consultancy specialising in commercialisation of new energy technology.

Axiomlab is contributing £625,000 in cash and debt and Energetic has folded its operation into the business.  It will identify promising technologies early and provide infrastructure, management and technical resources to take them forward.

Both partners have forged strong relationships with major players in the energy industry and academic institutions which they see as sources of valuable technology and ideas.

Many companies and institutions have large numbers of patents, which they have insufficient resources to develop.

The Aim-listed investment company has backed one such spin-off, THERmetica, which came out of EA Technology, the electricity industry’s R&D business.  It has links with Edinburgh and Dundee universities, among others.

Engertic’s academic links include a joint venture with Manchester University which is working on laser applications.

The new venture is seen as a logical development of Axiomlab’s existing business, which commits hands-on management and cash to companies, which have moved beyond proof of concept.

Fred Mendelsohn, Axiomlab’s managing director, says that until now most energy sector investment opportunities have been in the US, but he believes that Energetix will help to create some in the UK.