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Overview of the Programme and Its Objectives
The Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) – Round 5 Discovery Phase supports collaborative innovation projects that address critical challenges facing Great Britain’s gas and electricity networks. Delivered by Innovate UK in partnership with the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem), the programme aims to accelerate innovation that delivers net zero outcomes at the lowest possible cost to consumers while supporting innovative organisations to grow and scale.
Discovery is the first phase of a three-phase programme, followed by Alpha and Beta. Successful Discovery Phase projects may be invited to apply for subsequent phases, subject to further competition.
What the Programme Supports
The Discovery Phase focuses on early-stage exploration to define problems, user needs, constraints and opportunities before progressing to live testing and large-scale demonstration in later phases.
Projects must address one of the following Round 5 challenge areas:
• Advanced energy transmission and networks
• Dynamic modelling
• High energy demand point integration
• Consumer centric grid expansion
• Enhanced system visibility and control
• Green gas
• Whole system optimisation
Projects are encouraged to consider their development pathway from Discovery through to Alpha, Beta and potential commercialisation.
Who Can Apply
This competition is open to collaborative applications only.
Lead organisations must:
• Be an Ofgem licensed gas distribution network, gas transmission, electricity transmission, electricity distribution, or electricity system operator (ESO)
• Work with at least one project partner
Project partners may include a range of third-party innovators such as SMEs, start-ups, suppliers, academics, research organisations and other licensed energy network companies. Specific partner requirements vary by challenge theme.
Funding and Support Available
• Maximum funding per Discovery Phase project: £150,000 (exclusive of VAT)
• Projects must provide a minimum 10% compulsory private contribution
Projects must start after 1 May 2026, run for a maximum of five months, and be completed by 30 September 2026.
Key Dates and Timeline
• Competition opens: Monday 26 January 2026
• Competition closes: Wednesday 25 February 2026 at 11:00am
How Inventya Can Help
Inventya supports applicants to develop strong, compliant and competitive innovation funding applications. Our support includes:
• Interpreting SIF challenge requirements and scope
• Shaping collaborative project structures and roles
• Strengthening the innovation, consumer benefit and net zero narrative
• Developing clear Discovery Phase workplans and deliverables
• Ensuring compliance with Innovate UK and Ofgem requirements
We help you position your project clearly, competitively and confidently within the Strategic Innovation Fund framework.
