NESO launches first Whole Systems Innovation Strategy

The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has published its first Whole Systems Innovation Strategy alongside its Innovation Annual Summary.

Developed through extensive engagement with industry, the strategy takes a whole systems view of the challenges facing Great Britain’s energy system – and how innovation can address them. It identifies six priority areas where accelerated progress is needed to deliver clean power by 2030 and prepare for net zero by 2050, and sets out five “innovation enablers” to maximise impact, such as fostering innovation culture, sharing technology insights, and building workforce skills.

The accompanying Annual Summary highlights the evolution of NESO’s innovation portfolio, featuring case studies from key projects, including:

• Virtual Energy System’s Data Sharing Infrastructure Pilot – enabling scalable data sharing for net zero.
• FastPress – using AI to enhance network planning for hydrogen and methane integration.
• CrowdFlex – establishing domestic flexibility as a reliable grid resource.
• Network Security in a Quantum Future – developing tools to manage future cyber threats.
• Volta Programme – applying AI to optimise real-time operations.

In the past year, NESO has delivered 61 Network Innovation Allowance projects, 15 Strategic Innovation Fund projects, and generated 83 “Big Ideas” with 74 partners from academia, energy networks, non-profits, and private companies.

You can read the Whole Systems Innovation Strategy 2025/26 and the Innovation Annual Summary in full – and submit your own ideas – HERE.

NESO will be presenting at the Net Zero session of our National Rural Conference on Wednesday 17 September, 10:00–12:00 (online). Join Reece Emmitt, Stakeholder Engagement Manager at NESO, for a segment on “Rural Voices in Strategic Energy Planning” alongside other expert speakers. View the full conference programme and book your place here.