We are at the forefront of innovation in the GB energy sector, and have implemented new technologies and solutions on our network to address the challenges of the energy system. We’re continuously thinking big, starting small and scaling fast with our world-leading innovation projects and are becoming the utility of the future whilst delivering value for our customers.
Our goal is to increase efficiency, through constant innovation as we head towards a sustainable Net Zero future. That’s why we’re focused on delivering an extensive innovation programme as part of our RIIO-T2 and ED2 business plans.
We’re working in partnership with industry peers, innovators, businesses and local communities to solve the complex challenges in the energy system regularly reviewing our strategy, and alongside our own plans, the Energy Networks Association (ENA) Electricity Network Innovation Strategy helps us all to align our priorities, share thinking and avoid duplicating efforts
Read more about our portfolio of innovation projects and the mechanisms they’re funded via below:
SIF
The Strategic Innovation Fund was launched in 2021 by energy industry regulator Ofgem and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to find and fund ambitious, innovative projects with the potential to accelerate the transition to net zero across the electricity and gas sectors.
Want to know more about SIF? Visit Ofgem’s homepage (opens in a new window) here.
SP Energy Networks is working with numerous 3rd parties to realise projects that help tackle some of the UK’s biggest and most complex challenges in the push towards the country achieving its net zero emissions targets which are categorised to the following challenge areas:
Accessibility options: Audio described video
Round 2 Projects
- D-Suite
- D-Suite will create a market for a suite of Power Electronic Devices, capable of meeting the future challenges of decarbonisation in LV networks. This will support the rollout of LCT’s including heat pumps and EV chargers as we decarbonise the GB network
- Blade
- o BLADE will investigate how offshore wind farms can enhance energy system security by supplying black-start capacity and contributing to grid restoration in the event of power cuts. This will make the energy system future fit for the transition to renewable energies.
- Hubs
- The project will develop a new concept called multi-energy hubs to address the challenges of decarbonising the transport sector in the UK. The multi-energy hub is a modular microgrid that integrates local renewable sources, energy storage and different transport modes. The project will bring significant benefits to both electricity and railway customers.
NIC
As part of RIIO-1, the Electricity Network Innovation Competition (NIC) was an annual opportunity for electricity network companies to compete for funding for the development and demonstration of new technologies, operating and commercial arrangements.
SPEN have a strong portfolio of innovative projects which help all network operators understand how to provide environmental benefits, reduce costs, and maintain security of supply as Great Britain (GB) moves to a low carbon economy. Our project portfolio is listed below:
NIA
The Network Innovation Allowance (NIA) as part of the RIIO-1 & RIIO-2 price controls. Through this, we have a set amount cost as part of their price control allowance in order to fund smaller technical, commercial, or operational projects directly related to us that have the potential to deliver financial benefits to the licensee and its customers.
We have provided some information on our key projects, with our full NIA publication being available through the Energy Networks Association portal: Smarter Networks Portal. (opens in a new window)
Legacy Schemes
In addition to our SIF, NIC and NIA we have also leveraged additional innovation funding from a variety of sources to deliver innovation which is critical to improving our future.
Business as Usual
In addition to leveraged funding, we are also committed to delivering high TRL innovation through our business allowances, in line with our Innovation strategy and RIIO2 business plans. One of the key projects we are proud to showcase is project PACE: