UK electricity regulator Ofgem has granted £64 million for electricity distribution projects, with focus on innovation as it slowly takes responsibility for grid reform into its own hands. The investment has been approved under the RIIO-ED1 price control, where funds may be allocated to electricity distribution network operators for projects meeting Ofgem’s specified criteria. Applications were heard to help finance costs associated with high value projects; rail electrification; enhanced physical sites and specified street works. While funding was awarded for 12 applicants, approximately £258 million of requests were rejected. Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) was among beneficiaries, with £16 million to fund necessary diversions required to electrify the Great Western Railway line. However, requests regarding cable replacements at Petland…