Utility Trade, an independent energy consultancy, has embarked on a new three-year Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with De Montfort University (DMU) to develop an AI-driven system that will streamline internal processes and significantly improve forecast and price accuracy.
KTP is a national program that aims to help companies innovate by linking academic expertise to drive increased productivity, performance and long-term growth.
The £270,000 partnership, supported by Innovate UK, will be 67% funded by the Innovation Agency, with the remainder invested by Utility Trade. The partnership will bring together experts from DMU's Faculty of Technology, Arts and Culture and Faculty of Business Law to embed advanced knowledge in data analysis, software development and cybersecurity directly into the consultancy's work.
Founded in 2010 and based in Market Harborough, Utility Trade is an award-winning consultancy that helps businesses across the UK manage their energy costs and efficiency. Through this KTP, the company aims to deliver faster customer response times, improved reporting and billing, and more accurate forecasting to help businesses secure competitive energy contracts while supporting sustainable business growth.
The academic team will be led by Dr. Francisco Aparicio Navarro, Associate Professor of Cybersecurity at DMU. An expert in computer networks, cybersecurity, and AI-driven automation, Dr. Navarro brings more than a decade of experience and a strong track record in secure software design and applied AI.
Francisco said: “We are pleased to partner with Utility Trade on this KTP, which is focused on driving business optimization and growth through AI-powered systems based on best practices in software development. Building in security from the beginning is essential, and we hope this partnership will leave us with a lasting ability to continue to innovate in bespoke system development within Utility Trade.”
He will be joined by Dr. Abiodun Egbetokun and Dr. Eric D. Ofosu Hene, whose combined expertise in AI, data analytics and business process innovation will ensure this solution aligns with UtilityTrade's long-term strategic priorities and delivers measurable improvements in efficiency, decision-making and business performance.
Two graduate KTP associates, a data modeler and a software developer, will also be hired to support project implementation.
Georgie Gardiner, Sales and Marketing Director at Utility Trade, said:
“We were at a critical point in our growth and development plans when we approached DMU for advice. Thanks to the invaluable support of Darsheet Chauhan, Head of Knowledge Exchange, and everyone at DMU involved in the application, we were delighted to secure funding through KTP.”
“This funding will allow us to fill a skills gap within our company that was previously not possible. We are currently recruiting two KTP employees and look forward to working with them to realize our vision. It has been an honor to work with so many passionate professionals on our project.”
Darseet Chauhan, Director of Knowledge Exchange at De Montfort University, said:
“We are really excited to work on this dual associate KTP project with Utility Trade. By combining DMU’s expertise in software development and data management, KTP will streamline Utility Trade’s operations, automate processes and help clients build on their actual demand. The project will deliver incredible growth potential for the utility trade, supporting its path to becoming a sector leader, boosting local business and employment opportunities and advancing the sustainability goals of UK businesses.”
Posted on: Monday, January 5, 2026
