Pursuing a fully funded PhD in Renewable Energy in the UK is a strategic step for students and professionals passionate about combating climate change, advancing green technologies, and contributing to a more sustainable future. With the UK government’s ambitious goals toward net zero emissions and increased investments in clean energy, doctoral research in this field has become both highly relevant and well-supported.
Many UK universities offer structured PhD programs that combine interdisciplinary research, technical innovation, and strong industry collaboration. These programs often come with full funding, including tuition coverage, stipends, and research grants, making them accessible to qualified candidates worldwide.
From offshore wind farms and solar power innovation to sustainable energy storage and smart grid systems, students have the opportunity to work at the cutting edge of renewable energy science. Leading institutions like Oxford, Edinburgh, and Exeter offer not just academic excellence but also extensive networks with government and industry stakeholders.
The programs highlighted below provide comprehensive training and hands-on research experience, often through partnerships with top energy companies and government-funded research centers. Whether you’re interested in engineering, materials science, or policy-focused renewable solutions, the UK remains a global hub for impactful PhD research in this fast-growing sector.
Pursuing a PhD in Renewable Energy in the UK offers an opportunity to contribute to the advancement of sustainable technologies and energy solutions. Several esteemed UK universities provide fully funded PhD programs in this field, equipping students with the necessary resources to focus on their research without financial concerns. Below is a detailed overview of five such programs:
1. University of Exeter – Offshore Renewable Energy (Industrial Doctorate Centre) EngD
The University of Exeter, in partnership with the Universities of Edinburgh and Strathclyde University, offers an Engineering Doctorate (EngD) in Offshore Renewable Energy through the prestigious Industrial Doctorate Centre for Offshore Renewable Energy (IDCORE). This four year program is designed for highly motivated individuals with a strong academic background in engineering or a related field; the program combines rigorous academic training with practical, industry-led research. Students benefit from specialized modules in advanced technical and transferable skills, preparing them for leadership roles in the offshore renewable energy sector.
Through the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the university offers a fully funded PhD in Renewable Energy, providing comprehensive support, including coverage of tuition fees and a generous stipend for living expenses. The EngD program is structured around real-world industry challenges, with students undertaking research projects that directly address pressing issues in offshore wind, wave, and tidal energy technologies.
Throughout the program, students are placed with leading industry partners, gaining hands-on experience, building professional networks, and contributing to innovative solutions in sustainable energy. With its interdisciplinary approach, strong industry collaboration, and commitment to addressing the global demand for clean energy, the IDCORE EngD equips graduates with the expertise and experience to drive forward the future of offshore renewable energy.
Application Deadline: October annually.
2. University of Surrey – Sustainable Energy PhD
The University of Surrey offers a PhD program in Sustainable Energy, providing students with the opportunity to engage in advanced research focused on the transition to low-carbon and renewable energy systems. Key research areas include the integration of renewable energy sources, innovative energy storage technologies, sustainable materials development, and smart energy systems. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, drawing on expertise from engineering, materials science, and environmental disciplines. With access to cutting-edge research facilities and strong academic mentorship.S tudents are supported in producing high-quality, impactful research that contributes to global sustainability goals.
The University offers a fully funded PhD scholarship in Sustainable Energy through its dedicated Energy Systems Studentships. These scholarships cover full tuition fees and offer a stipend to support living expenses over the course of the program. The Energy Systems Studentships, in particular, support cross-school and cross-faculty research, encouraging students to explore complex, system-level energy challenges from multiple disciplinary angles.
Designed for ambitious and research-driven candidates, these funding opportunities provide the foundation to pursue innovative projects and engage with pressing energy issues. With its focus on interdisciplinary research and real-world impact, Surrey’s PhD in Sustainable Energy prepares graduates to play a leading role in shaping the future of energy.
Application Deadline: July 6th, 2025
3. University of Oxford – DPhil in Engineering Science (Renewable Energy Focus)
The University of Oxford offers a DPhil (PhD) in Engineering Science, with the opportunity to specialize in cutting-edge renewable energy research. Students can undertake projects focused on solar energy, wind power, sustainable energy systems, and related technologies, contributing to the advancement of clean and efficient energy solutions. The program promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and provides access to world-class laboratories, expert supervision, and a vibrant academic community. With strong links to global research networks and industry partners, Oxford’s Engineering Science program supports innovative, impactful research with real-world applications.
The University offers a fully funded PhD scholarship in renewable energy through the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Studentships. These competitive awards cover full tuition fees and include a generous stipend to support living expenses throughout the duration of the program. Aimed at academically outstanding candidates with a passion for sustainable energy, the EPSRC Studentships provide the resources and flexibility needed to pursue ambitious research goals.
Students are encouraged to explore the Department of Engineering Science’s website to identify potential supervisors and align their research interests with ongoing projects. With its global reputation and commitment to excellence, Oxford’s DPhil program equips future leaders to drive innovation in renewable energy and address the challenges of a sustainable future.
Application Deadline: December/Early January
4. University of Edinburgh – Offshore Renewable Energy EngD
The University of Edinburgh, through its role in the Industrial Doctorate Centre for Offshore Renewable Energy (IDCORE) partnership, offers an Engineering Doctorate (EngD) in Offshore Renewable Energy. This innovative program is designed to develop future leaders in the renewable energy sector by combining rigorous academic research with real-world industrial experience.
Students engage in research projects that tackle critical challenges in offshore wind, wave, and tidal energy technologies, working closely with leading companies in the energy sector. The program also includes in-depth training in both advanced technical subjects and professional skills, preparing graduates for impactful careers in industry and academia.
The University offers a fully funded PhD scholarship in Offshore Renewable Energy through the IDCORE program. This scholarship covers full tuition fees and provides a competitive stipend for living expenses over the four-year duration of the doctorate. The funding is supported by the UK Research Councils and industry partners, ensuring that students not only receive financial support but also benefit from direct engagement with real-world energy projects.
The program’s structure emphasizes collaborative research, industrial placements, and interdisciplinary learning, equipping students with the expertise and experience needed to contribute to the global shift toward sustainable energy.
Application Deadline: Usually January, but can sometimes be extended to April.
In conclusion, a fully funded PhD in Renewable Energy in the UK enables students to contribute to the advancement of sustainable technologies while receiving financial support for their studies. Each of these programs offers unique strengths and research opportunities, allowing students to select the path that best aligns with their academic and professional goals.
With access to world-class research facilities, expert supervision, and strong industry partnerships, these programs equip students with the knowledge and experience needed to drive innovation in the renewable energy sector. For those passionate about clean energy and global sustainability, a fully funded PhD in the UK provides the ideal foundation to make a meaningful impact on the future of energy.
