Deadline: 04-May-2026
The Energy Insights and Innovation Lab Research Call invites researchers to propose applied, policy-relevant projects addressing real-world challenges in India’s power sector. The program supports high-quality research in economics and social sciences, with limited, case-based funding and a dedicated early-career fellowship of up to £5,000. Projects must align with utility contexts such as Tata Power and generate actionable insights.
About the Lab (EIIL)
The Energy Insights and Innovation Lab focuses on bridging research and real-world energy sector challenges.
The program aims to:
- Improve decision-making in the power sector
- Generate data-driven and actionable insights
- Support collaboration between researchers and utilities
- Advance evidence-based energy policy and innovation
Key Research Focus Areas
Proposals should address:
- Demand-side management and load flexibility
- Tariff design and pricing strategies
- Consumer behaviour and technology adoption
- Cooling demand and energy efficiency
- Electric vehicle (EV) charging systems
- Renewable energy integration
- Service quality and customer engagement
- Data science and AI for forecasting and targeting
Types of Research Supported
The program encourages rigorous methodologies such as:
- Randomized evaluations (RCTs)
- Quasi-experimental methods
- Observational studies
- Advanced data analytics and AI
Projects must produce credible, practical, and policy-relevant insights.
Funding Details
- Funding type: Limited, case-by-case
- Covers:
- Research assistance
- Travel expenses
- Implementation costs
Funding does not typically cover full project costs.
Early-Career Fellowship
- Funding: Up to £5,000
- Eligible for:
- PhD students
- Postdoctoral researchers
Fellowship Requirements
- Minimum 4 weeks in Mumbai
- Work with EIIL data or collaborate with Tata Power
- Focus on a clearly defined research project
Who is Eligible?
- Researchers in economics and related social sciences
- PhD students and postdoctoral researchers (for fellowship track)
Proposal Requirements
Applicants must:
- Define a clear research question
- Present a credible empirical strategy
- Demonstrate strong methodological rigor
- Show alignment with utility-based implementation
Data and Collaboration Requirements
Projects should:
- Use EIIL datasets
OR - Be implementable within a utility environment
Applicants must include:
- A plan for data access or generation
- Feasibility within real-world energy systems
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
- Identify Research Problem
Focus on a real-world issue in the power sector. - Design Methodology
Select a rigorous and credible research approach. - Align with EIIL Ecosystem
Ensure feasibility with data or utility collaboration. - Prepare Proposal
Include research question, methods, and impact. - Submit Application
Follow EIIL’s submission process. - Await Shortlisting
Funding scope will be clarified if selected.
Why This Program Matters
The Energy Insights and Innovation Lab Research Call:
- Bridges academic research and industry practice
- Supports evidence-based energy policy
- Enhances utility performance and innovation
- Addresses critical challenges in India’s energy transition
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Vague or overly theoretical research questions
- Lack of clear empirical strategy
- No plan for data access or implementation
- Misalignment with utility environments
- Overestimating funding scope
Tips for a Strong Application
- Focus on practical, real-world impact
- Clearly define research design and identification strategy
- Demonstrate feasibility within utility systems
- Use or plan access to relevant datasets
- Highlight potential for policy or operational impact
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
Researchers in economics and related fields.
2. Is full funding available?
No, funding is partial and case-based.
3. What is the fellowship amount?
Up to £5,000.
4. Is collaboration required?
Yes, with EIIL or utilities like Tata Power.
5. What methodologies are accepted?
RCTs, quasi-experiments, observational studies, and analytics.
6. Is on-site presence required for fellows?
Yes, at least 4 weeks in Mumbai.
7. What is the main goal?
To generate actionable insights for India’s power sector.
Conclusion
The Energy Insights and Innovation Lab Research Call offers a strong opportunity for researchers to work on real-world energy challenges.
By combining rigorous research with practical implementation, the program helps drive innovation, improve policy decisions, and support India’s transition toward a more efficient and sustainable power system.
For more information, visit International Growth Centre.