Newcastle University experts will carry out a discovery phase project, evaluating several key locations, including The Port of Tyne.

Dubbed VOLT, the project explores multi-vector microgrids as a transformative solution, combining renewable energy, hydrogen, and energy storage to optimise decarbonisation and resilience. The project is funded by Ofgem, as part of the Strategic Innovation Fund mechanism. It is aligned with the Regional Energy Strategic Plan, it aims to deliver scalable, cost-effective models to support the UK’s net-zero goals.

A microgrid is a localised electrical grid, acting as a self-contained energy system for a specific area. The importance of reliable supply has been highlighted during recent high-profile disruptions, such as the Heathrow Airport blackout, caused by a substation fire, and the power outage in Spain in Portugal.

The Newcastle University team includes Professor Haris Patsios (Principal Investigator), Professor Roberto Palacin, Dr David Greenwood and Dr Matt Deakin.

While the project is at a discovery phase, the researchers’ goal is to secure funding for actual deployment of suggested solutions in these sites. 

Professor Haris Patsios, Professor of Smart Energy Systems at Newcastle University School of Engineering, said: “The project presents a fantastic opportunity to develop new ways to enhance the resilience and reduce the carbon footprint of energy systems from a local level. Microgrids can play a huge role in the decarbonisation and security of the wider system but there are significant challenges to overcome. Particularly as transport and critical infrastructure is being electrified and new generation and loads are being introduced.

“Industrial and commercial sites in heavy-emission zones, such as ports, airports, and manufacturing hubs, face critical challenges in decarbonisation and resilience. These areas have complex energy demands and often lack solutions to integrate renewable energy, adapt to dynamic consumption patterns, and ensure reliability during supply disruptions. Barriers like regulatory constraints, infrastructure limitations, and cost concerns further hinder progress.”

Professor Roberto Palacin, Professor of Transport Futures and Academic Director for Electrification, Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering, added: “This award builds on the strength of our partnerships in the region and beyond with significant strategic relevance to our work and leadership on Electrification. I am excited about the opportunity to explore this incredibly important area and the role that Newcastle University already plays and will continue to do so in the transition to a net zero society.”

Strategic Innovation Fund - Discovery Phase

The Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund is delivered in partnership between Ofgem and Innovate UK, drawing on Innovate UK’s established expertise in managing innovation programmes, convening partners, and fostering entrepreneurship.

The Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) is part of the price control system managed by industry regulator Ofgem and was established in 2021 to drive innovation and transformation in energy networks.

Working in partnership with Innovate UK, Ofgem aims to find and fund ambitious, innovative projects with the potential to accelerate the transition to net zero. These projects should help shape the future of the gas and electricity networks and succeed commercially where possible.

Key sectors include Agriculture, AI, Built environment, Digital, Energy, Energy efficiency, Fuel poverty, Net zero, Retrofit, Sustainability, Transport, Water.