More transparency urged on innovation projects

More transparency is needed over funding to help accelerate the UK’s transition to a cleaner energy system, according to a report.

Citizens Advice said that over £727m has been committed through Ofgem’s Network Innovation Allowance (NIA) and Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF).

The report reviewed 75 projects which had secured funding and assessed how clearly network companies report on objectives, funding, progress, and outcomes.

It said the results were a “mixed picture”.  Although most NIA projects clearly define their aims, it said  some never confirm whether they were achieved.  For SIF, it said the picture is weaker with only half of completed projects report on outcomes.

“Transparency is not a tick-box exercise. Without clear, consistent, and timely reporting, it’s impossible to know whether innovation funding is delivering value for money,” said the report.

“Consumers fund most of this work. They have a right to see evidence that their money is improving reliability, affordability, and decarbonisation.”