The UK’s new Energy Catalyst fund which aims to support innovative low carbon technologies was launched by the Government yesterday.

The initial round, which includes funding worth £25 million, is seeking applications from innovative businesses, academics and research institutions to support projects ranging from early stage concept designs to pre-commercial technology validation.

The new initiative is funded by the Technology Strategy Board along with the Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council and DECC.

Business and Energy Minister Michael Fallon said: “Britain has historically been home to some of the world’s greatest innovations and this fund will help to continue that trend in the energy sector which has real potential to create growth and jobs.

“Catalysts such as this form an important delivery tool under our industrial strategy, which is giving business the confidence to invest – securing high skilled jobs and a stronger economy.”