As the UK moves toward net zero, more households are switching to electric vehicles (EVs) and adopting electricity-based heating solutions such as heat pumps. Simultaneously there’s an increasing use of internet-connected devices and digital communication systems, making people become more reliant on a stable and uninterrupted electricity supply.
As dependency grows, disruption to electricity supply will have an increased impact on distribution network operator (DNO) customers, especially if they have specific or complex needs. In some areas, the vulnerability extends beyond individual households, affecting entire communities that rely on shared, electrically powered infrastructure such as water pumps or district heating systems.
The risks are further heightened by the effects of climate change, which is expected to increase the frequency and severity of extreme weather events that can disrupt power networks.
Preferred Solution
Solutions are required to minimise the impact of power loss on customers and should consider:
- The varying issues that both customers and communities face during power loss and identify ways these issues can be mitigated or removed
- Changes that the network operators could make to mitigate the impact of power outage
- Solutions that address electricity outages due to extreme weather events
- Proactive measures that build resilience among customers and communities before power loss.
Process Information
To make a submission for this challenge please sign in/register to the Energy Innovation Centre (EIC) hub. Complete the submission process and we will be in-touch with feedback and any potential next steps. If you have any queries, then please email us at [email protected].
Closing Date
The deadline for submissions to this challenge is 23:59 on 31 October 2025.