An innovative climate change centre and Wales' second biggest supercomputer were unveiled at a European Open Day at Technium Pembrokeshire on Friday.
The new 'Mike Barnsley Centre for Climate Research' is named in recognition of former Swansea University Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Mike Barnsley's outstanding contribution to both the university and the field of environmental science.
The centre is a joint venture between Pembrokeshire County Council, Swansea University, IBM and Technium Pembrokeshire in Pembroke Dock.
Also launched was the IBM supercomputer 'Blue Ice', which will allow its users to perform calculations in a fraction of the time needed by a regular computer.
Recognised as the most energy-efficient in Wales, the supercomputer is surrounded by a spectacular visualisation suite and is the latest addition to a family of 'blue' supercomputers in south-west Wales.
It was officially switched on as part of an address by Professor Tavi Murray, the centre's scientific director and Professor of Glaciology at Swansea University's School of the Environment and Society.
The climate change centre and 'Blue Ice' were unveiled during the first European Open Day conference at the Technium, a European Objective 1 funded project.
Welcoming the 150 delegates, Clr. John Allen-Mirehouse, deputy leader of Pembrokeshire County Council and chairman of the conference, said: "Today allows us to consider many climate and environmental issues that face us in the future."
During the day, delegates heard from the European Committee of the Regions rapporteur on the Renewable Energy Directive and keynote speaker from the conference, Clr. Paula Baker.
They also heard from representatives of the petrochemical and electricity industry and examined innovative ways of energy production from cutting edge renewable technology.