TRLs are a measure of technical risk. However, by themselves, they may not relate to risks, cost and schedule. For instance, a technology at a low TRL can mature more quickly than those at higher TRLs. In addition, if the project environment changes, it is also possible that TRLs will go down as well as up. Therefore, you should analyse your TRLs with care and consider the external factors that might affect them.

TRLs relate to individual plant items they do not suggest that the individual plant items can be integrated and will work together. When it comes to R&D funding, then, it is possible that the innovative technology is actually the sum of different individual items. A valuable suggestion would be to assess the TRLs of each of the parts composing the technology.

Remember, TRLs indicate how far the technology is from commercialisation; they do NOT indicate, on their own, whether it is eligible for a funding application. Other factors, including scope, are also important. When you approach a funding competition, we’d advise that you read the scope first and use TRLs to support your application.