IUK Partners with Ofgem to Launch Discovery Phase of Strategic Innovation Fund

UK gas distribution/transmission network operators or electricity system operators can access funding to deliver projects that offer value to energy consumers through energy network innovation.

Funded by the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) and administered by Innovate UK (IUK), the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) seeks to support energy network innovation that contributes to the achievement of Net Zero, while delivering real net benefits to network consumers.

Ofgem recognises that innovation will play a central role in delivering best value to energy consumers. Innovation is expected to prepare the regulated energy network companies to deliver net zero greenhouse gas emissions at lowest cost to consumers, while maintaining world-class levels of system reliability and customer service, and ensuring no consumer is left behind.

The SIF ‘Discovery’ programme is the first phase of a three-phase competition, comprising Discovery; Alpha; and Beta.

There are four challenge competitions in the Discovery phase: Whole System Integration; Data and Digitalisation; Zero Emission Transport; and Heat.

A total of up to £3 million is allocated to the Discovery phase. Discovery phase projects must last two months and have total eligible costs up to £150,000.

Applications are open to single entities only. To lead a project, the applicant must be a UK licenced gas distribution network, transmission network operator, or electricity system operator.

Successful applicants from the Discovery phase will be invited to apply for the Alpha phase.

The deadline for receipt of applications is 17 November 2021 (11:00 GMT).

(This report was the subject of a GRANTfinder Newsflash.)