UWL26 - Content Programme

As the energy system undergoes rapid transformation, closer collaboration between academia and the utility industry has never been more critical. This panel brings together researchers, utility leaders and non-departmental public body to explore how academic innovation can more effectively translate into real-world utility applications and how industry challenges can better inform research priorities. Through practical examples and candid discussion, the session will highlight pathways to accelerate knowledge transfer, reduce implementation barriers and build long-term partnerships that support a reliable, affordable, and decarbonised energy future.

• How do we shorten the cycle from academic insight to utility deployment and close the time to impact gap?
• Why do many clean energy pilots stall and how academia and utilities co-design programs that are scalable, repeatable and investment-ready?
• How can industry and academia better align incentives and success metrics to reward impact, deployment, and system benefit?
• Using CP230 frameworks and standards to align research, planning, and investment decisions around outcomes rather than isolated projects
• How can both academia and industry ensure graduates, researchers and practitioners are equipped for modern grid challenges?