TSB competition aims to secure UK’s future power systems
A fund worth £2.4million is being made available by the Technology Strategy Board (TSB) for feasibility studies into automated power distribution and demand management systems.
The four-year Smart Power Distribution and Demand competition is aimed at developing new technologies to help meet the needs of the UK's future power systems.
According to the TSB, it is the first element of a planned portfolio of investment into power network innovations.
"By 2050, there will be a complex mix of energy generating assets including everything from nuclear power stations to offshore wind turbines and solar cells on people's houses," said TSB chief executive Iain Gray, pictured.
"At the same time, demand for power will go up, and the power sector will need to manage new requirements, such as the electrification of heating systems and the incorporation of electric vehicles into the electricity system.
"In this complex future grid, the challenge will be to match demand and supply. The scope of this initial funding competition will therefore focus on real time monitoring, control, analysis and the balancing of supply with demand."
The competition for funding opens on 9 January 2012 and the deadline for submission of applications is 22 February 2012.
£25,000 of match funding will be available for short term feasibility studies that present concepts for future innovative technologies, business and operational models.
For more detailed feasibility studies, presenting opportunities to demonstrate innovation, up to £100,000 match funding will be available.
