£1.4m network targets clean-energy commercialisation barriers
Six universities will connect researchers with industry and investors
Moving electrochemical technologies towards commercial use is the focus of a £1.4 million initiative announced by the University of Surrey. Funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, EENet+ will bring together six universities and industrial advisers over three-and-a-half years.
The network aims to address gaps in testing, validation, scale-up and commercial expertise for technologies including fuel cells and conversion of captured carbon dioxide into useful products. A £460,000 flexible fund will support proof-of-concept studies, placements and community-led initiatives. Its first call is expected in early 2027. Early-career researchers will also receive entrepreneurship training.
Why this matters for policymakers
- Measuring outcomes Evaluation should track progress towards validated technologies, not just network participation.
- Shared facilities Access arrangements merit scrutiny alongside funding allocations.
- Commercial skills Training outcomes could inform wider research commercialisation support.
Image: Illustrative photograph of an XCELLSIS fuel-cell bus, showing an application of fuel-cell technology, not equipment developed or funded by EENet+. EERE, Public domain. Resized and converted to JPEG for display.