Powering Energy Innovation

Impressive conversion rate highlights strength of collaboration and innovation  

Powering energy innovation to accelerate the transition towards net zero.

For organisations working at the cutting edge of the energy transition, finding the right innovators, and converting interest into sustained engagement remains a challenge. By working collaboratively with networks to develop and refine their challenge briefs, priorities are clearly defined. This shared understanding then supports the next step, identifying the right innovators who can work alongside networks to deliver solutions.

The Energy Innovation Centre (EIC), based in Cheshire UK, brings industry and innovators together to tackle some of the energy sector’s most pressing issues. The EIC’s role is to progress innovations that accelerate the transition towards net zero, improve safety, affordability and performance across the transmission and distribution networks. Impact depends on the EIC finding the right partners and supporting the transition from initial idea to business-as-usual implementation. Collaboration underpins everything the EIC does.

To help the EIC connect with pioneering thinkers they utilise NCUB’s konfer platform that helps connect and inform people of network challenges. 

The EIC was one of the early organisations to recognise the power of konfer and have made over 120 contacts through the platform since joining in 2021. These connections are widening the EIC’s reach. By using konfer, EIC can place challenges directly in front of organisations already primed to respond.

This high level of engagement shows how relevant the EIC challenges are to both universities and businesses within the NCUB konfer network, demonstrated by the conversion rate from enquiries to solution submissions, including connections with 35 universities. For the EIC, the real triumph lies in the conversion: 52 of these contacts, representing a substantial 43% conversion rate, went on to create accounts on the EIC’s own innovation Hub, 15 of which are universities.

This level of conversion shows that Konfer doesn’t just generate interest – it drives meaningful follow-through.

Supported by a dedicated team of technical experts, the EIC continues to bridge the gap between ideas and business as usual deployment.

A spokesperson from the EIC said: “Konfer has been instrumental in broadening our reach and enabling meaningful partnerships across the innovation landscape. We’re seeing real impact, from increased engagement on our innovation Hub to the development of practical solutions addressing energy sector challenges. Konfer’s support is helping us turn ideas into action and drive positive change for industry and society alike.”  

The EIC is a valued member of konfer’s network, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and accelerating innovation across the energy sector. By advancing new energy solutions and efficiencies, the EIC not only benefits industry and society but also offers the konfer network distinctive opportunities to get involved in pioneering projects and help drive transformative change.

For other organisations looking to turn innovation challenges into real collaborations, EIC’s experience shows what’s possible when the right ideas meet the right partners.

Join the growing network of organisations using konfer to connect, build impactful relationships, and bring bold ideas to life. Whether you are seeking to solve complex industry problems or explore pioneering research, konfer makes it simple to turn curiosity into action. 

Connect with the EIC today and start powering your next innovation.