The Energy Entrepreneurs Fund (EEF) supports through capital
grants, the development and demonstration of innovative technologies and/or processes in the areas of energy efficiency, power generation, heat generation and energy storage.
The scheme seeks the best ideas, irrespective of source, in these areas from the public and private sector. However, the scheme particularly aims to assist small and medium sized enterprises, including start-ups. Those companies that are selected will receive acceleration support.
The Energy Entrepreneurs Fund has already launched seven phases – the first in August 2012. Between Phases 1 to 7, EEF has supported 156 projects to develop innovative, low carbon products across a wide range of technologies. These were awarded grants to a value of c. £72m.
Since the launch of EEF 7 the UK Government has committed to a 100% decarbonisation target by 2050 (rather than the previous 80%), and a 78% decarbonisation target has been proposed for 2035 by the Committee on Climate Change in their 6th Carbon assessment published in December 2020.
Beis is now launching Phase 8A of the Energy Entrepreneurs Fund with up to £11 million available. Expressions of interest are required by 12pm noon BST on 26th February 2021 and the deadline for applications is 12pm noon BST on 30th March 2021.Click here for more information.
Only one proposal per applicant may be submitted. Companies can apply for up to £1m grant per proposal. During the application process, applicants will be expected to demonstrate a robust evidence based case for funding, which will include but not be limited to:
- the potential impact of the innovation on 2050 Net Zero targets or security of energy supply
- the technical viability of their innovation and a coherent development plan that will commercially progress the innovation
- value for money, including cost reduction potential
- the size and nature of the business opportunity
