DSIT NMS Phase 2 – NEL Flow Programme

This notice is to inform the market that a number of contract awards will be made in relation to the National Measurement System (NMS). The NMS is the system of laboratories and capabilities that underpin the UK’s metrology. The NMS provides the UK with an infrastructure of laboratories that deliver world-class measurement science and technology and provide traceable and increasingly accurate standards of measurement. The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) and the National Engineering Laboratory (TUV-NEL) develop and maintain measurement standards that support high-precision manufacturing processes. This ensures that UK manufacturers can produce high-quality products that meet international standards.

The NMS labs support the digital economy by developing measurement techniques for emerging technologies such as quantum computing, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT), helping the UK stay at the forefront of technological innovation.

Metrology labs contribute to environmental sustainability by providing accurate measurements for monitoring air and water quality, greenhouse gas emissions, and energy efficiency. This supports the UK's efforts to transition to clean energy sources and mitigate climate change.

The TUV SUD National Engineering Laboratory (NEL) enables accurate and precise measurements of flow, such as of oil, water, and gas, through the maintenance and dissemination of the UK's primary measurement standards. This supports domestic and industrial utility metering, the roll-out of alternative fuels, and the development of carbon capture and storage, among other things.

DSIT's National Measurement System underpins all science, technology and R&D activities in the UK. The extensive scientific and technical infrastructure, expertise, and resources necessary to provide these services mean that there is an absence of competition from other providers. The works, supplies or services can be provided only by a particular economic operator for the following reason: absence of competition for technical reasons.

NMS contracts are therefore awarded directly.