Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) round 2 projects approved for funding
- Publication type:
- Policy
- Publication date:
- Topic:
- Innovation
- Subtopic:
- Strategic Innovation Fund
- Industry sector:
- Distribution Network,
- Transmission Network
Alpha phase projects approved in 2023, and beta phase projects approved in 2024, including project directions.
The Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) aims to find and fund ambitious, innovative projects with the potential to accelerate the transition to net zero.
The Strategic Innovation Fund is a funding mechanism for the sectors:
- National Energy System Operator (NESO)
- gas and electricity transmission companies working in innovation partnerships
- distribution companies working in partnership with an energy licensee on an innovation project
Alpha phase
On 10 October 2023, we published SIF Project Directions for 36 round two Alpha phase projects in the SIF.
Since then, we have approved change requests from network companies about some projects. The updated SIF Project Directions are available on this page.
Beta phase
Through the beta phase, SIF supports large-scale demonstration projects that trial solutions in real-world network environments. These should have the potential to shape the future of the gas and electricity networks and deliver benefits for consumers.
On 26 September 2024, we approved funding for a portfolio of projects through Round 2 of the SIF beta phase. Independent expert reviewers assessed the projects and considered strategic fit and consumer value.
The SIF Project Directions for the approved Round 2 Beta projects are available on this page. The Project Directions set out the approved scope, funding arrangements, and delivery requirements for each project and reflect the final funding decisions.