Utilities have a longstanding reputation for being risk averse and slow-moving. National Grid intends to change that once and for all, with the launch of a unique new venture investment and innovation unit. National Grid Partners (NGP) officially opened its doors last week and announced five new funding recipients: AutoGrid, ClimaCell, Leap, Omnidian and Sitetracker. NGP’s role is to keep its parent company more than one step ahead of the latest breakthrough ideas and at the forefront of the energy industry — with a bold vision to “define” a smarter and more renewable energy future.