"Welcome to the future," Mr Perrett said.

"This new centre, to be called the Sir Samuel Griffith Centre, will be an innovative hub where Griffith University scientists discover and develop the renewable energy technologies we need for a low carbon future.

"It will also set a new standard for sustainable building design."

Mr Perrett said Griffith University had runs on the board when it came to environmental credentials.

"They have been setting the standards since the 1970s," he said.

"Griffith University is a world leader in environmental science education and research with more than 5,600 environmental science graduates in the last 35 years.

"This new building will bring an even greater focus on climate change adaptation research."

Mr Perrett said the federal funding for the centre reflected the Gillard Government's commitment to tackle climate change.

"The Gillard Government is rolling out the biggest-ever investment in renewable energy through the expanded Renewable Energy Target and the $5.1 billion Clean Energy Initiative," he said.