The energy networks have the potential to be some of the most innovative businesses in the world according to Matt Hastings, Deputy Director of the Strategic Innovation Fund, UKRI who spoke at Energy Networks Association’s Innovation Conference (ENIC21) on 12th October and now available free and on-demand at https://l.eniconference.org/40DAEX
However, the challenge facing the industry is a steep one which Hastings described as the beginning of an urgent paradigm shift toward Net Zero and the challenge of our lifetime.
“We need high performance disruptive, purposeful innovation, thinking about the how and who not just the what”. Hastings outlined the steps to make the UK the best place for energy users, and a global talent magnet attracting businesses, academics and investors to grow their ideas.
Amongst his list is for the networks to become incubators of capability and innovation, avoiding group think and echo chambers. To take technologies from other sectors and invest in new collaborations with new partners who may make them feel uncomfortable. To have a one team mentality so an idea that starts in one network gets rolled out across all the networks.
Hastings wants to see more diversity of people and ideas, the fostering of “intrapreneurialism” so that every employee is empowered to innovate and decision makers as experienced risk takers.
Matthew Billson, Deputy Director – Energy Innovation Strategy, Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) joined Hastings in the opening keynote at ENIC21. Bilson outlined the government policies to support the drive to Net Zero including setting bold targets such as the Ten Point Plan; regulation and legislation e.g., the petrol vehicle phase-out. Deployment activities in the energy sector like the CCS infrastructure fund, together with funding for RD and innovation including the £1bn BEIS Net Zero Innovation Portfolio.
You can watch the full keynote debate now and until 12th November at https://l.eniconference.org/40DAEX
ENIC21 is the essential conference for people who manage, develop and implement innovation initiatives in the energy sector. Over 3000 energy professionals have registered. You can join them and continue to hear from over 250 energy leaders in 100+ sessions by watching the conference, free and whenever you chose, until 12th November.
With dedicated tracks for gas, electricity, whole energy systems and special sessions, you can easily find the sessions best suited for you. You can also filter by speaker and topic or watch selected highlights from each day of the conference.
Register today for free access to updates on major initiatives in the energy system transition including:
– Digitalisation including 5G, AI and cyber security
– Decarbonisation of transport and industry
– Ensuring no customer is left behind as we work toward net zero
– Whole energy systems approach to the decarbonisation of heat.
Don’t forget to visit the Poster Hall and the Exhibition area for more inspiration, updates and contacts dedicated to innovation in the Energy sector.
Registrants can continue to connect with each other on the event platform using the text chat function until 12th November.
Watch On Demand FREE now at https://l.eniconference.org/40DAEX
Energy Networks Innovation Conference
Enabling a digital, decarbonised energy system
On Demand until 12th November 2021
Virtual | On demand | Exhibition | Networking
Article source: https://www.energylivenews.com/2021/10/27/route-map-to-achieve-the-paradigm-shift-to-net-zero-and-establish-the-uk-silicon-valley-of-energy/
