A new energy hub in Newport News, operated by the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center, aims to transform emerging technologies into real-world solutions.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — A new hub focused on advancing energy innovation is now open in Newport News, aiming to accelerate how emerging technologies move from research to real-world use.
The “Secure Energy Future Center,” located at Tech Center Research Park, brings together universities, industry leaders, and government partners to collaborate on next-generation energy solutions. The facility is operated by the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center.
Leaders say the center is designed to address growing energy demands and strained infrastructure by focusing on resilience, workforce development, and the commercialization of new technologies. It also connects with major federal research institutions, including NASA Langley Research Center and Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility.
According to Virginia Tech, the center builds on Hampton Roads’ unique strengths — including its maritime and defense industries, port infrastructure, and proximity to federal labs — to create a collaborative ecosystem aimed at moving energy ideas closer to deployment and practical use.
More than 100 leaders from government, higher education, and industry gathered on April 22 to preview the new space, which features interactive technology designed to support training, demonstrations, and collaboration.
“We’re proud to be part of this growing node of innovation — neighboring Jefferson Lab, NASA Langley, and some of the world’s most advanced defense and maritime infrastructure,” Virginia Tech President Tim Sands said.
State leaders say the center also reflects a shift in economic development priorities.
“If you think about the trajectory of economic development, it used to be finding a good building… then workforce,” said Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Carrie Chenery. “Now it is, ‘What are we going to do about energy, demand and energy supply, and energy in the future?’”
The center will support a wide range of efforts, including energy education programs, workforce certifications, technology demonstrations, and partnerships with entrepreneurs and industry. Organizers say the goal is to help new energy technologies move more quickly from concept to commercialization.
Officials also emphasized the economic impact, saying the project is expected to help drive job growth and long-term regional resilience by aligning university research with industry needs.
As the center begins operations, leaders say it will serve as a long-term platform for collaboration, helping position Hampton Roads as a growing hub for energy innovation, workforce development, and research-driven economic growth.
