– Ofgem’s Strategic and Innovation Fund (SIF) has announced £5.8 million to fund feasibility studies for 44 projects related to electricity network utilisation and system flexibility
– The projects will focus on whole system planning, novel approaches for a net zero power system, and energy system flexibility
– Examples of selected projects include Equiflex, B-Linepack+, Electric Thames, KnowMyFlex, and WASH, aiming to promote network resilience and accelerate net zero plans.
Ofgem’s Strategic and Innovation Fund (SIF) has allocated £5.8 million for feasibility studies on 44 projects related to electricity network utilization, system flexibility, and approaches to achieving net zero emissions. These projects will be led by energy network companies in partnership with innovators and organizations. The selected projects aim to address challenges such as whole system planning, net zero power system delivery, electrification of heat, and power-to-gas for system flexibility.
The SIF, funded by Ofgem and delivered by Innovate UK, aims to quickly identify innovative solutions to energy network challenges with the potential for significant impact. The projects will now enter the initial discovery phase to accelerate net zero plans, enhance network resilience, reduce costs, and streamline maintenance activities.
Examples of selected projects include Equiflex, which aims to provide equal access to flexibility markets, and B-Linepack+ which explores geological solutions for gas storage. UK Power Networks also listed projects like Electric Thames, KnowMyFlex, and WASH aimed at increasing energy flexibility, engaging customers, and decarbonizing heat networks.
The UK’s SIF fund, launched in 2021, plans to invest £450 million by 2026. The projects selected under this fund have the potential to make a significant impact on communities and the energy sector, driving innovation and sustainability in the pursuit of net zero emissions.