Two innovation projects focused on building a smarter energy future have secured nearly £1 million in funding.
Northern Powergrid will lead Project VOLT and Power Wheels, backed by Ofgem’s Strategic Innovation Fund.
Both projects aim to increase grid flexibility to support the UK’s energy transition.
Duncan Oliphant of Northern Powergrid said: “Flexibility is an innovation priority for us to drive meaningful change in the energy sector towards a more resilient and reliable energy system, and it is an important part of both projects that we are driving forward.”
Project VOLT has received £500,000 to explore how microgrids using renewables, storage, hydrogen, and smart controls can improve energy reliability for major users and critical infrastructure.
Trial sites will include the Port of Tyne and Newcastle Airport.
Power Wheels has been awarded £490,000 and will explore how electric vehicles on the Motability Scheme could help reduce energy costs and increase grid resilience.
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Andrew Miller, CEO of Motability Operations, said: “Many of our customers are on lower incomes and face significantly greater medical risks during power interruptions.
“Projects like Power Wheels allow us to explore how EVs could support disabled drivers beyond mobility needs alone, from improving resilience to managing energy costs, while keeping vehicle choice and accessibility front and centre.”
