Power network operator awarded over £400,000 for innovative energy projects

Stockport-based power network operator for the region, Electricity North West, has been awarded over £400,000 for innovative projects that address energy challenges in the region.

Ofgem has awarded the business £427,000 to explore in more detail projects that could help improve energy efficiency, support decarbonisation and address energy security challenges in the region. Projects – Net Zero Terrace, REWIRE and RetroMeter – are funded by energy network users and consumers through the Strategic Innovation Fund, a programme from energy regulator Ofgem, in partnership with Innovate UK, and could help deliver cost and carbon savings for both domestic and commercial energy customers across the North West.

Victoria Turnham, Electricity North West’s head of network innovation, said:

“We’re really pleased Ofgem has recognised the potential of the three projects we put forward and awarded us significant funds to explore them in more detail.

“As a region, we’re seeing more customers start to adopt low carbon technologies such as heat pumps and electric vehicles and it’s our role to ensure the network is ready for people to do that.

“We’re one of the most digital electricity networks in the world and we’re constantly looking at ways to operate more smartly and efficiently.

“Each of the three projects could provide benefits to customers in the North West and I look forward to seeing the results.”

Net Zero Terrace will demonstrate how to decarbonise an entire terraced street using a smart local energy system that is integrated with the network.

REWIRE (REsidential Whole system Integrated REsilience) will aim to improve the resilience of the network by installing technology in domestic properties which will help provide greater flexibility on the network. REWIRE will also help reduce customer bills due to the reduced costs associated with reinforcing the network. 

RetroMeter will examine the energy and cost savings benefits of retrofit energy efficiency measures in a residential building, such as fitting loft insulation and draft proofing.