UK, England: Project VOLT, the North East microgrids initiative, has entered its proof-of-concept stage following a $685,000 (£500,000) grant from Ofgem’s Strategic Innovation Fund. Led by LCP Delta for Northern Powergrid, the project aims to explore hybrid, dual-fuel microgrid solutions for large commercial and industrial energy users in the region.
Earlier assessments suggested participating sites could lower peak electricity demand by up to 30 %, easing stress on the wider grid and reducing network reinforcement needs. Depending on site characteristics, carbon emissions and energy costs could fall by as much as 80 %, while critical operations maintain near-continuous coverage during outages.
The proof-of-concept phase will focus on detailed modelling and site-based simulation across multiple real-world locations, including the Port of Tyne, Newcastle Airport, Severfield, and Pulsant. Partners will examine operational approaches, demand profiles, local infrastructure constraints, and hybrid configurations to optimise efficiency and resilience.
Duncan Oliphant, head of Commercial Flexibility at Northern Powergrid, said: “Flexibility is central to the project, helping large energy users manage electricity efficiently while supporting the wider grid. This phase allows us to strengthen the evidence base for cleaner, smarter energy systems that can be scaled across the region and beyond.”
Outputs from the modelling will inform regional energy planning, infrastructure investment, and strategies for low-carbon transition, preparing the way for future real-world trials. The initiative highlights the role of advanced microgrids in modern grid design, operational flexibility, and industrial energy management.
Source: The Engineer
