Development of a technology transfer score to inform the selection of a research proposal

Against a backdrop of changing US energy strategies, which includes increased research investments in clean energy, the utility industry needs to respond to unprecedented technology challenges. These challenges include an aging infrastructure, a growing population, and aggressive energy efficiency targets. The utility industry is investing in research to identify solutions. However, it's not enough to just develop a technology that solves an energy related problem. In order for a solution to be effective and have an impact, the technology needs to be applied - without the technology transfer component, energy strategies cannot be realized. Therefore, there is a need to understand the difficulties associated with technology transfer. This research will focus the development of a technology transfer score (TTS) that can be used to inform the selection of a research proposal. The paper includes a comprehensive literature review, development of the TT score decision model, and implementation of the score through a pilot demonstration. This research will provide valuable information to the energy industry. Knowledge is power - by identifying those attributes which contribute to successful technology transfers, the industry could take a proactive approach by ensuring that those elements are implemented and effective in their organizations. While the focus of this research is on the utility industry, the model can easily be applied to any organization that solicits technology research proposals.