Masdar and Octopus Energy have entered into two agreements to collaborate on clean energy systems in the UK and Africa.

The companies signed the memorandums of understanding (MoUs) during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, focusing on both unlocking unused capacity in the UK’s electricity distribution network and developing clean energy solutions for commercial and industrial users in Africa.

In the UK, Masdar and Octopus Energy aim to address constraints within the current grid system, which has delayed connections for renewable projects due to high demand, particularly from data centres.

By pinpointing available capacity in distribution networks, the partnership plans to implement local energy systems that incorporate solar power, battery storage and flexible grid connections.

This approach is intended to provide data centres with faster access to power, bypassing extended waiting periods for traditional grid upgrades.

Octopus will utilise its Kraken technology to optimise energy supply by managing on-site generation, battery storage and grid usage.

The system will support continuous operation of data centres while adjusting consumption based on cost fluctuations.

In Africa, Masdar and Octopus have agreed to expand clean energy infrastructure by building distributed grids powered by solar and wind resources.

The collaboration initially targets South Africa, with potential expansion into other African nations.

These projects are designed to deliver electricity directly to businesses and homes while fostering economic development through improved industrial productivity.

Octopus Energy founder and CEO Greg Jackson said: “This is about delivering projects that make energy cheaper, cleaner, and unlock real opportunities for businesses and industry.”

Masdar's involvement also aligns with its Power Africa Initiative, part of a broader campaign seeking $450m in investment for various clean energy solutions across the continent.

In 2023, Masdar reached an agreement to adopt Octopus’ Kraken platform for flexible management of its battery portfolio in the UK.