Four smart energy systems demonstrator projects across the UK have been announced this week by Energy and Clean Growth Minister Claire Perry.
From charging electric vehicles, managing heating and power through machine learning, to storing power with lithium ion batteries and using heat pumps, these projects show how the very latest in energy innovation can be put together to provide cheaper, cleaner energy for users.
The projects include:
These demonstrators will show how businesses can develop local energy approaches at a scale that will create better outcomes for consumers and promote economic growth for the UK.
By the early 2020s, these demonstrators aim to prove that smarter local energy systems can deliver cleaner and cheaper energy services.
Perry commented on the excitement to see how businesses and project partners reveal how innovative tech, such as energy storage, heat networks and electric vehicles can help towards a smarter energy future.
"We are at the start of a green revolution, as we move to more digital, data-driven smart systems that will bring us cleaner and cheaper energy. These projects, backed by Government funding, are set to spark a transformation and change the way we interact with energy for the better as part of our modern Industrial Strategy".
Rob Saunders, Deputy Challenge Director, Prospering from the Energy Revolution, UK research and Innovation, said "we all need energy systems that are cheaper, cleaner and consumer-friendly. We have a great opportunity with these demonstrators to show just how innovation can deliver this energy ambition for the future. Supported by the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund, these projects can drive investment, create high-quality jobs and grow companies with export potential".
As part of the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund, the £102.5 million Prospering from the Energy Revolution Challenge will develop cutting-edge capabilities in local systems that deliver cleaner, cheaper and more resilient energy for consumers, while also creating high-value jobs for the UK.
The challenge brings together businesses working with the best research and expertise to transform the way energy is delivered and used. This includes providing energy in ways that consumers want by linking low-carbon power, heating and transport systems with energy storage and advanced IT to create intelligent local energy systems and services.
To receive funding projects must demonstrate new, smarter, local energy approaches at scale which can:
