Energy Networks Grand Challenges - Submission of Ideas

The Research Councils UK Energy Programme is seeking input from stakeholder groups to help identify opportunities for Grand Challenges in the area of Energy Networks.

The provision of electricity is vitally important for development. Over 1.6 billion people do not have access to commercial electricity. Many rely on traditional biomass for heating and cooking, suffering from severe health problems caused by biomass pollution. 

Further research is needed and the Grand Challenges for Energy Networks is one way to support this area of development sciences research.

Focusing on future challenges, submissions should consider what could be achieved in a 20-40 year timeframe if researchers, from different research groups, disciplines or institutions, were to work together.

Ideas should meet most or all of the following criteria:

• Potential for internationally leading research
• Potential for a step change in current knowledge
• Potential for a positive societal and/or economic impact
• Focus on long term goals (20-40 years)
• UK research capacity
• Potential for adopting a multidisciplinary approach

Submissions are due by 5pm Monday 1 March 2010.

For more information and a response form see www.epsrc.ac.uk/CallsForProposals/EnergyGrandChallengeIdeas.htm

Following the scoping workshop, The Energy Programme will produce a call for proposals for Grand Challenges later in the year.

The Energy Programme

Led by EPSRC, the Research Councils' Energy Programme bringing together engineers and scientists from many areas to tackle the research challenges involved in creating new energy technologies and understanding the social and economic implications.