UK energy regulator launches GBP450 million network innovation fund

摘要

UK energy regulator Ofgem has launched a GBP450 million ($620 million), five-year Strategic Innovation Fund in power and gas networks under the RIIO2 price controls, it said Aug. 31. The fund would be drawn from energy consumer bills, with projects required to bring a net benefit to bill payers, Ofgem said. It would ensure “cutting-edge ideas and new technologies become a reality, helping us find greener ways to travel, and to heat and power Britain at low cost,” said Ofgem Chief Executive Jonathan Brearley. Projects seeking support must address four energy transition challenges: whole system integration; data and digitalization; heat; and transport. Projects could range from ensuring networks are ready to roll out alternatives to gas boilers such as heat pumps to developing ways for network companies to work together across transmission, distribution, system operation, gas and electricity.