Energy costs and supply shortages hit European research infrastructure

Rising energy costs, supply shortages and extended delivery times triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic and Russia–Ukraine war have had a ‘profound effect’ on science facilities across Europe, according to a new report by the European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructure (Esfri) – a key body that advises European policymakers on the needs of major research facilities.

In its latest report, which is based on responses to a survey sent to research facilities in December 2022, Esfri notes that synchrotrons have been the most affected by these challenges, with five out of 10 reporting a planned interruption of operations.