Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund round five discovery C7
UK Research and Innovation’s Ofgem SIF round five discovery C7 funds collaborative research to advance innovation in UK electricity and gas networks for net zero and system resilience.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: October 21, 2026: Competition closes
Funding Amounts: Up to £30 million total (Discovery Phase); max £200,000 per project (exclusive of VAT), 5-month duration.
Summary: Supports collaborative projects to develop innovative solutions addressing key challenges in UK electricity and gas networks.
Key Information: Lead must be an Ofgem-licensed network or NESO; minimum 10% private match required.
Description
This opportunity funds the Discovery Phase of the Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) Round 5, delivered by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) in partnership with Innovate UK and Ofgem. The program supports collaborative projects that tackle pressing challenges in the UK’s electricity and gas networks, aiming to accelerate the transition to net zero, enhance system resilience, and deliver benefits to consumers. Seven challenge areas are targeted, ranging from advanced grid technologies to consumer-centric solutions and whole system optimisation. The Discovery Phase is the entry point to a multi-phase innovation process, with successful projects eligible to progress to subsequent Alpha, Beta, and Deployment phases.
