Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund Discovery C6
Funds collaborative research to define and develop innovative solutions for critical challenges in UK electricity and gas networks, supporting the transition to net zero.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: June 24, 2026 (11:00am UK time)
Funding Amounts: Up to £200,000 (exclusive of VAT) per Discovery Phase Project; total competition funding up to £30 million.
Summary: Funds collaborative projects addressing innovation challenges in UK electricity and gas networks to accelerate net zero and system transformation.
Key Information: Only Ofgem-licensed energy network operators may lead; minimum one partner required; 10% private match funding for most projects.
Description
The Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund Discovery C6 supports collaborative Discovery Phase Projects that address critical innovation challenges in the UK energy sector, specifically targeting electricity and gas networks. The program aims to foster innovative solutions that accelerate the transition to net zero, improve network efficiency, and deliver consumer benefits. This Discovery Phase is the first of four competition phases (Discovery, Alpha, Beta, Deployment) and focuses on defining problems, understanding user needs, and developing initial project concepts. Projects must align with one of five innovation challenges, ranging from accelerating business connections to improving system resilience and balancing.
