How might PFI be an alternative to the JREI?
PFI would be an appropriate procurement route if, for example, a researcher wanted the use of a particular piece of equipment, but did not need to own it. Using PFI, the researcher might, for instance, buy a specified number of hours use each week. The supplier would be responsible for financing the purchase of the equipment, installing it, operating it, maintaining it and eventually disposing of it. Thus the supplier, not the user, is managing the risks associated with interest rates, commissioning, availability, technological obsolescence and residual value. The user only pays so long as the equipment is available. If the supplier can find other uses for the equipment, he may also be able to achieve economies of scale or a third party income, and this would be reflected in the price to the user.
