In collaboration with Energy Systems Catapult, we are excited to announce the launch our latest Innovator Insights Report. The research report, developed following an SME Engagement Survey which was completed in May 2019, explores the relationship between the EIC’s network partners and third-party innovators.
In order for the UK utilities sector to meet it's challenging decarbonisation targets, outlined in the Government’s net-zero policy, innovation will be crucial. The sector will need to be agile to adapt to new ways of operating, adopt new tools and techniques, and actively collaborate to ensure the cross-fertilisation of learning and ideas from a range of different sectors.
To make this happen, utility organisations will need to foster collaborative partnerships with a range of new partners, technology providers, and innovators. Many of these will be small and medium enterprises (SMEs) able to offer niche products and services.
The Innovator Insights Report looks to uncover what challenges and opportunities exist when it comes to facilitating more meaningful engagements between energy network companies and SMEs, and where further support and guidance can be given by organisations like the EIC and ESC. The overall aim of the report being to strengthen relationships between stakeholders, and ultimately, increase the pace and value of innovation to networks – and importantly – customers.
Read more about the Innovator Insights Report here.
View the previous Insights Report, released in 2017, here.