UKERC is inviting Expressions of Interest (EoIs) for a major new research project focused on public acceptance of electricity network infrastructure, and how infrastructure development processes respond to societal preferences.
This opportunity will fund a collaborative, co-created research project that sits within UKERC’s research programmes on Delivering Energy Infrastructure and Affordability, Justice and Economic Impacts. The selected team will work alongside UKERC leadership to design and deliver the research, with a maximum budget of £375,000 (100% FEC). The project must start no later than 30 March 2026 and conclude by 30 June 2028.
We are seeking innovative, evidence-based proposals that explore:
Public perceptions of electricity grid infrastructure;
How development processes can better respond to societal views;
The conditionality and durability of acceptance;
Systemic interactions between acceptance of specific projects and broader energy system changes.
Key themes identified through stakeholder engagement include cumulative impacts of infrastructure, trust and transparency in engagement processes, and the sufficiency of public acceptance to proceed with projects.
The call is open to researchers based at UK Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), Research Council Institutes, and UKRI-approved Independent Research Organisations. While non-eligible organisations (e.g. industry, NGOs, local authorities) cannot apply for funding, they are encouraged to participate as project partners.
Successful applicants will become full members of the UKERC consortium, with access to a national network of energy researchers and opportunities to contribute to UKERC events, outputs, and policy engagement.
We welcome Expressions of Interest from the week commencing 28 July 2025. The deadline for submission is 17:00 on 12 September 2025. Applications should address specified research questions, describe relevant team experience and EDI commitments, and outline intended impacts and project budget.
Download the full guidance document
Complete and submit your Expression of Interest using this form
Please note: This is the first of four calls for Expressions of Interest UKERC will be launching in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for further opportunities to contribute to UKERC’s national research programme on the energy transition.