Research
Great Britain's electricity distribution network is the oldest interconnected energy network in the world, and this brings unique technology challenges.
We are always striving to improve how we manage our network with new research, innovation and technology to benefit our customers.
Innovation Funding Incentive
Ofgem's Innovation Funding Incentive (IFI) scheme encourages Distribution Network Operators to invest in improving network operation and maintenance.
Since it was established in 2005, we have fully engaged with the IFI and continue to develop and test new technologies through research, development and demonstration projects.
Our research aims to:
- make asset management better
- improve our ability to restore supplies to customers after faults
- develop new Smart Grid technologies to support the move to a low carbon network.
IFI has also enabled us to invest time developing our relationships with local universities at Liverpool and Manchester.
We also support a number of national research and development initiatives at the Energy Networks Association in collaboration with other industry partners.
Annual reports
You can see our IFI annual reports here:
The following documents were prepared by United Utilities, prior to Electricity North West taking over the network, but retained here for information:
If you require any more information on a specific research project, please email us at futurenetworks@enwl.co.uk