UK Power Networks (UKPN) has been granted funding for four projects in the latest round of Ofgem's Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF). These projects aim to address various challenges in the electricity grid. The 'Hot Chips' project focuses on utilizing waste heat from data centres to support low-carbon heating and improve heat pump performance. The 'SHARED' project explores low-cost hydrogen production for enhancing energy resilience in rural areas. 'Conductor' project examines using under-used electricity substations to power electric trains, reducing the need for grid upgrades. The 'Super DuPPR' project will investigate sharing emergency backup power with the grid. Luca Grella, head of innovation at UK Power Networks, expressed that securing funding for these projects is a significant achievement and highlights the company's commitment to addressing energy challenges. The collaboration between Ofgem and Innovate UK through the SIF program aims to accelerate the transition to clean energy by investing £450 million in innovative projects by 2026.