Scope
Reference
WS4997397443
Description
National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) is seeking collaboration with universities to support delivery of its innovation strategy over the next five years
(April 2026 - Mar 2031). The primary objectives during this period include facilitating the energy system transition (including Clean Power 2030 and net zero
2050) and providing support for vulnerable consumers.
University partners will be expected to contribute both resources and technical expertise to the development and execution of Research & Development (R&D)
projects. We expect universities to run projects within Technology Readiness Levels 2 to 8 which includes research, development and demonstration projects.
These initiatives will enable NGET to ensure a safe and reliable electricity network, enhance consumer value, achieve decarbonisation of future networks, and
create a positive impact on society.
NGET will invite universities to propose new projects that address specific needs, while also encouraging the generation of innovative project ideas. In addition to individual innovation projects, partners will play a crucial role in fostering innovation through strategic development, knowledge sharing and promoting an innovation-driven culture. Knowledge sharing may include supporting NGET in running dissemination events across the energy sector and other industries to
communicate the outputs, learnings and benefits from projects, as well as using these events to learn from others.
Commercial tool
Establishes an open framework
Total value (estimated)
- £70,000,000 excluding VAT
- £84,000,000 including VAT
Above the relevant threshold
Contract dates (estimated)
- 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2031
- Possible extension to 31 March 2033
- 7 years
Description of possible extension:
Up to 2 years of extensions if required.
Main procurement category
Services
CPV classifications
- 73111000 - Research laboratory services
- 73120000 - Experimental development services
- 73200000 - Research and development consultancy services
- 73300000 - Design and execution of research and development
Contract locations
- UK - United Kingdom
Framework
Open framework scheme end date (estimated)
31 March 2033
Maximum number of suppliers
Unlimited
Maximum percentage fee charged to suppliers
0%
Framework operation description
Schedule of rates to be provided. Direct allocation or direct competition, dependant on the project.
Award method when using the framework
Either with or without competition
Contracting authorities that may use the framework
Establishing party only
Submission
Submission type
Requests to participate
Tender submission deadline
12 February 2026, 11:59pm
Submission address and any special instructions
Via National Grid's internal Ariba system.
Tenders may be submitted electronically
Yes
Languages that may be used for submission
English
Award decision date (estimated)
16 February 2026
Award criteria
| Name | Type | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Technical | Quality | 70% |
| Price | Price | 30% |
Other information
Conflicts assessment prepared/revised
Yes
Procedure
Procedure type
Competitive flexible procedure
Dynamic market being used
Innovation Qualified Utilities Dynamic Market
Special regime
Utilities
Competitive flexible procedure description
Evaluation Stage No
Evaluation Stage Description of Evaluation Methodology
Shortlisting Strategy
1 ITT Stage 1
Desktop Evaluation and Moderations
- Commercial Price &Non-Commercial
Shortlisting may occur at this stage.
2
Negotiation
(Optional Stage at NG
discretion)
Price Negotiation and potential negotiation in respect of
proposed deviations to the Framework T& C's.
Shortlisting may occur
at this stage.
3 Final ITT Moderation
Moderation of Commercial and Non-Commercial Submissions. Confirm winning
Reduced tendering period
Yes
Using dynamic market - minimum 10 days
Contracting authority
NATIONAL GRID ELECTRICITY TRANSMISSION PLC
- Companies House: 02366977
- Public Procurement Organisation Number: PHHJ-6513-BWZT
1 - 3 Strand
London
WC2N 5EH
United Kingdom
Region: UKI32 - Westminster
Organisation type: Private utility