Thank you for following the Clean Energy Newsletter! (28/07/2025)

Dear Readers,

Celebrating five years of the Innovation Fund (23/07/2025)

As a key tool of the EU's climate and industrial policy, the Innovation Fund aims to accelerate the deployment of cutting-edge low-carbon technologies. Since its first calls in June 2020, it has launched 11 further ones by mid-2025, awarding over EUR 12 billion to more than 200 projects across the European Economic Area.

Green Assist pilots paving the way for credible nature credit models (24/07/2025)

On 7 July, the European Commission published its Nature Credits Roadmap to boost private investment in nature-positive actions across Europe. Through Green Assist, the EU is already supporting pioneering pilot projects testing nature credit models, including wetland restoration in France, sustainable forest management in Estonia, and an exploratory project contributing to an international partnership with Peru.

LIFE programme: new skills roadmaps delivered in 15 countries to meet buildings’ climate and energy goals (28/07/2025)

Since 2011, the EU’s BUILD UP Skills initiative has supported projects enhancing the skills of energy efficiency professionals to meet EU energy performance standards. To continue this effort, the LIFE Clean Energy Transition (CET) 2025 call includes a topic focused on boosting awareness and cooperation among key national stakeholders, implementing upskilling and reskilling actions, and launching a large-scale national campaign to attract more people to energy efficiency professions.

Innovation Fund: six additional projects contributing to decarbonise the European industry (23/07/2025)

Six projects from the 2023 Innovation Fund general call for net-zero technologies reserve list have signed their Grant Agreements. Together, they will benefit from a total of nearly EUR 319 million in grants, financed via the EU Emissions Trading System. This brings the number of projects supported under this call to 83.

Innovation Fund: EUR 852 million for innovative electric vehicle battery projects (23/07/2025)

Six pioneering electric vehicle battery cell manufacturing projects will receive a total of EUR 852 million in grants from the Innovation Fund, using revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System. These grants follow a first Battery Call launched in December 2024 aimed at accelerating the growth of and investment in the EU's battery manufacturing industry.

Sign up as an Expert to evaluate LIFE Clean Energy Transition proposals (28/07/2025)

CINEA is currently inviting experts from the fields of energy efficiency and renewable energy to register in the European Commission expert’s database for evaluating proposals from the LIFE Clean Energy Transition (CET) sub-programme. The 2025 LIFE Calls for proposals were published at the end of April, making EUR 91.4 available for CET projects.

CINEA at the European Week of Regions and Cities (24/07/2025)

Registrations are open for the EU Week of Regions and Cities, taking place from 13 to 15 October in Brussels. Join Europe’s largest event on regional and urban policy under the theme "Shaping Tomorrow, Together." CINEA will be present with a corporate stand in the exhibition area.

Explore the full programme for the 2025 Urban Mobility Days (28/07/2025)

The 2025 Urban Mobility Days take place in Vilnius from 30 September to 2 October, bringing together key players to discuss cycling, public transport and urban networks. The full programme is now available and CINEA, along with many of our projects, will be there to share insights and innovations.

Registrations are open for 2025 R&I Days (28/07/2025)

Registrations are now open for the European Research & Innovation Days, which take place on 16–17 September in Brussels. Join key discussions on startup and scaleup strategy, life sciences, AI in science, and new innovation acts. CINEA will be present at the dedicated drone exhibition. Meet us there!

SustainSea: cutting maritime CO₂ emissions with wind power (23/07/2025)

Backed by a EUR 4.1 million grant from the Innovation Fund, the SustainSea project is cutting fuel consumption and emissions from cargo ships by harnessing the wind. This innovative wingsail operates in a similar way to an aircraft wing placed upright, generating lift and thrust from the wind.

Horizon Europe navigating growth: using blockchain and AI to reclaim Europe's inland waterways (28/07/2025)

Europe’s expansive inland waterways remain underutilised despite their potential. Researchers and industry partners are developing innovative tools such as blockchain-powered pollution control that support smarter, more resilient and sustainable inland waterway transport.

Green Assist: unlocking carbon credits for second-life battery projects (24/07/2025)

In the expanding field of green finance and circular economy, French greentech company Rainbow (formerly Riverse) is pioneering innovative solutions for certifying carbon credits in second-life battery projects. Facing financial and verification challenges, Rainbow turned to Green Assist for expert support to develop a robust methodology to quantify avoided emissions and bring financial credibility to this emerging sector.

Another just transition project has started in the Czech Republic (23/07/2025)

The energy upgrade of public lighting in Usti nad Labem will receive EUR 2 million from the Public Sector Loan Facility to accelerate the region's energy transition towards a low-carbon economy and increased use of renewable energy sources. The project is expected to benefit around 90 000 users of the public transport and road network, as well as the employees of the transport company.

#LIFEis33: Celebrating a third of a century of green innovation (20/06/2025)

At the end of May, the LIFE programme celebrated 33 years of supporting projects tackling circular economy, achieving zero pollution, improving nature and biodiversity, climate mitigation and adaptation, and supporting clean energy.

Sign up as an expert to evaluate LIFE Clean Energy Transition proposals (20/06/2025)

CINEA is currently inviting experts from the fields of energy efficiency and renewable energy to register in the European Commission expert’s database for evaluating proposals from the LIFE Clean Energy Transition sub-programme. The 2025 LIFE Calls for proposals were published at the end of April, making EUR 91.4 available for Clean Energy Transition projects.

Innovation Fund Stakeholder Consultation: Register for online participation (22/06/2025)

On 27 June 2025, the Stakeholder Consultation Event will focus on the upcoming 2025 Innovation Fund Call for Proposals (IF25 Call). The objective is to provide an overview of the Innovation Fund's progress and achievements, gather feedback on future calls, and give sector-specific stakeholders the possibility to provide their input on the design of the IF25 Call.

EUSEW 2025: Check out the highlights and rewatch the sessions (22/06/2025)

With over 7000 unique online participants and 2000 attending in person, this extraordinary week was powered by an engaged community. Featuring more than 60 policy sessions, EUSEW offered rich insights and dynamic discussions. If you missed anything, there is still time to rewatch the sessions on the EUSEW platform, explore the highlights, and dive deeper into the stories behind the event.

Highlighting the impact of EU aviation funding at the Paris Airshow (22/06/2025)

CINEA participated in this year’s International Paris Air Show, a key event for highlighting the strength and breadth of CINEA-managed EU projects in aviation. These initiatives span from early research to large-scale deployment, all aimed at advancing cleaner and more competitive aviation.

CEF Energy: CINEA awards grant certificates to five key projects at the Energy Infrastructure Forum (20/06/2025)

On 2 June, the 11th Energy Infrastructure Forum kicked off in Copenhagen. CINEA contributed to a discussion on the deployment of Europe’s energy infrastructure and celebrated the symbolic signature of five grant agreements with projects co-funded under CEF Energy.

CEF Energy: Material of the PCI/PMI call info day now available (20/06/2025)

On 22 May, CINEA organised a virtual info day to present the policy context of the call for Projects of Common and Mutual Interest (PCI/PMI), along with the application and evaluation processes. Participants also received valuable tips and tricks on writing a successful proposal. If you missed it, you can find the recording and the slides on the event page.

LIFE shows the path to energy efficiency at the C4E Forum (20/06/2025)

At the Central and Eastern European Energy Efficiency (C4E) Forum 2025, teams from more than 20 LIFE projects shared their knowledge about how to make Europe’s buildings more energy efficient for a greener, more secure future.

Horizon Europe: How the Geological Service for Europe is building a sustainable future from the ground up (20/06/2025)

With careful management, the resources lying beneath our feet can play a crucial role in reducing our continent’s carbon footprint. Tackling subsurface challenges on a transnational and continental scale requires a broad, cross-border approach. The Geological Service for Europe (GSEU) project, funded by Horizon Europe Energy, provides the comprehensive solution needed to meet this challenge.

PIONEER: Decarbonising airport operations with second-life car batteries (20/06/2025)

The PIONEER project, backed by the Innovation Fund, is deploying one of Europe’s largest airport-based energy storage systems at Rome Fiumicino. By integrating over 750 second-life electric-vehicle batteries with 55,000 solar panels, it creates a 10 MWh system designed to cut 16,000 tonnes of CO₂ over 10 years, marking a significant step toward circular, scalable clean energy for airports.

Europe bets on reducing offshore wind costs, also thanks to EU funding (23/06/2025)

Offshore wind is not only a clean energy choice, but is also emerging as a central pillar of Europe’s strategy for energy independence. As the EU moves to significantly expand offshore wind capacity, the sector must tackle a critical challenge: how to scale up wind farms in a sustainable and cost-effective way.

Green Assist: Empowering SODENA to drive a greener future in Navarre (20/06/2025)

SODENA, the business development agency of the Government of Navarre (Spain), is raising its environmental ambitions with tailored support from Green Assist, an advisory initiative funded by the LIFE programme. Over the next year, this partnership will focus on embedding sustainability deeply into SODENA’s investment strategy and operations, especially in areas like the circular economy, biodiversity, and environmental performance.

New CORDIS Results Pack on Africa-EU collaboration (20/06/2025)

As Europe’s closest neighbour and strategic partner, Africa shares strong ties and mutual interests with the European Union. Their partnership is evolving into a forward-looking alliance addressing critical global challenges such as climate change and clean energy transition in support of resilience, energy access and inclusive green growth on both continents. This new CORDIS Results Pack highlights 14 projects funded under the EU’s Horizon 2020 and Horizon Europe research programmes – real-world examples of the Africa–EU partnership in action.

Innovation Fund: Investing into the future of net-zero technologies and electric vehicle battery cell manufacturing (16/05/2025)

A record 373 project proposals were submitted under the 2024 Innovation Fund calls, a clear signal that European industry is all-in on the clean transition. With up to EUR 3.4 billion in EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) funding, the calls generated overwhelming demand that far exceeded available budget. Check out all the details and next steps.

Horizon Europe: 2025 work programme adopted (16/05/2025)

The European Commission adopted the Horizon Europe 2025 work programme, investing over EUR 7.3 billion to strengthen EU competitiveness, drive the clean and digital transitions, and support global talent.

Innovation Fund: Nearly EUR 1 billion awarded to boost development of renewable hydrogen (20/05/2025)

15 renewable hydrogen production projects will receive a total of EUR 992 million in EU funding, sourced from the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS). The winning bidders, winners of the second European Hydrogen Bank auction with Innovation Fund funding, will produce renewable hydrogen in Europe with a subsidy that will help close the price difference between their production costs and the market price, accelerating the deployment of cleaner fuels.

Montenegro joins the EU LIFE Programme for Environment and Climate Action (16/05/2025)

The Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, Jessika Roswall, and Montenegro’s Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Region Development, Damjan Ćulafić, signed the agreement on Montenegro’s association to the LIFE Programme, making the country eligible to receive funding to protect nature and biodiversity.

RENEWFM: EUR 52 million to 9 renewable energy projects in Finland and Estonia (18/05/2025)

The European Commission has announced the allocation of EUR 52 million in funding support through the EU Renewable Energy Financing Mechanism (RENEWFM) to 9 renewable energy projects in Finland and Estonia. ​The awarded projects will add a total capacity of 445.65 MW of renewable energy installations and are expected to be commissioned between 2027 and 2028.

Horizon Europe: Over EUR 630 million available to fund new climate, energy and mobility research projects (20/05/2025)

The European Commission has launched new calls for projects under Horizon Europe's Cluster 5 Work Programme for 2025 – which groups together topics on Climate Action, Energy and Mobility. Two calls will cover sustainable, secure and competitive energy supply topics.

Horizon Europe: New European Bauhaus call is now open (16/05/2025)

With a budget of EUR 118.4 million, this call will support projects connecting the green transformation, social inclusion and local democracy, exploring circular and regenerative approaches for the built environment, and identifying innovative funding and new business models for the transformation of neighbourhoods.

2025 LIFE Calls for proposals – EUR 91.4 million available for Clean Energy Transition projects (19/05/2025)

The 2025 LIFE Calls for proposals were published at the end of April and are open until September. The recordings of the #EULife2025 info days provide insights into the priority topics of the calls, the Clean Energy Transition sub-programme and advice on how to prepare a good proposal. Find out everything you need for your Clean Energy Transition project application.

EUSEW: Register now and vote today! (18/05/2025)

The 2025 European Sustainable Energy Week is coming! Join us in Brussels or online on 10–12 June to shape Europe’s energy future. The public vote for the EUSEW Awards is already open - support your favourite finalists, read their stories and vote for the projects and people who inspire you most.

The European Maritime Day is underway in Cork! (18/05/2025)

Blue economy stakeholders are gathering in Cork from 21 to 23 May for the European Maritime Day (EMD) 2025. CINEA is participating with many maritime EU-funded projects at the EU Stand and a workshop on the role of aquaculture.

Horizon Europe Cluster 5 info day: Recordings and presentations available (15/05/2025)

Whether you were unable to attend or wish to revisit key sessions on climate, energy and mobility topics, you can now view the content at your convenience.

EUCAD 2025: Driving the future of mobility (21/05/2025)

Last week, over 400 delegates met in Ispra, Italy, for EUCAD 2025 to explore the future of Connected, Cooperative and Automated Mobility (CCAM). Organised by the European Commission and the CCAM Partnership, the event highlighted Europe’s progress in turning mobility research into real-world solutions.

Info session on Green Assist: Recording and presentation available (18/05/2025)

The info session on Green Assist and water resilience was a great success, bringing together over 100 participants from across Europe. Thank you to everyone who joined us! For those who could not attend, do not worry - the slides and the recording are available online, so you can catch up anytime and discover how Green Assist can support your project.

Cities that inspire: How the Horizon Europe DESIRE project is making sustainability irresistible (16/05/2025)

As part of the New European Bauhaus initiative, DESIRE is rethinking our urban environment with a new vision: cities that not only tackle the climate crisis, but also foster community, restore nature and celebrate design.

SHEEFT: Releasing the solar potential of Europe’s flat rooftops (16/05/2025)

Thanks to the support of the Innovation Fund, a French startup is pioneering photovoltaic technology to transform flat rooftops into sustainable energy production hubs, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Empowering local energy: The European Energy Communities Facility supported by the LIFE Programme (16/05/2025)

The European Energy Communities Facility was officially launched in March 2025 at the European Parliament. MEPs unanimously expressed their support for energy communities, highlighting their contribution to the clean energy transition, renewables acceptance and affordable energy prices.

New career opportunities at CINEA: Join the Innovation Fund team (16/05/2025)

CINEA opened six vacancies to work on the Innovation Fund. Explore these and more opportunities and apply by 30 May.

CEF Energy launches EUR 600 million call for energy infrastructure projects (16/04/2025)

Projects in the fields of electricity, smart electricity grids, CO2 networks, hydrogen and electrolysers, and offshore, included in the latest PCI and PMI list can apply for funding. An info day to present the call and the application process will be held virtually on 22 May.

Info Session on Green Assist: EU advisory support for projects towards water resilience (16/04/2025)

CINEA is organising an online info session on how Green Assist can support projects and investments in water resilience. Join to follow the updates on the plan to strengthen water systems; to gain insights from a Green Assist expert and a beneficiary project; and to learn how Green Assist can help you from a business perspective, expected performances and benefits, alignment with EU regulations, and much more.

The LIFE 2025-2027 Work Programme has been adopted (16/04/2025)

The work programme for the implementation of the LIFE Programme in 2025-2027 has been adopted, with an indicative amount of EUR 413.3 million allocated to the sub-programme Clean Energy Transition.

Top takeaways from the 2025 Cleantech Conference (16/04/2025)

On 8 April, the 2025 Innovation Fund Cleantech Conference brought together industry leaders to explore Europe's clean industrial transformation. Relive the best moments with the photo highlights, wrap-up article and full event recording.

DistrictEES: how Dutch districts are ditching natural gas (16/04/2025)

With support from the EU’s research programme, Horizon 2020, the DistrictEES project is reducing natural gas use across Dutch cities and towns – renovating more than 400 homes with energy-efficient upgrades and slashing CO2 emissions.

LIFE: cutting costs and boosting efficiency for energy intensive industries (16/04/2025)

As energy prices rise and calls for greater efficiency grow louder, LIFE AUDIT-PLUS is helping energy intensive industries in 3 European countries embrace new technology to reduce both their costs and their emissions.

LIFE 2025 Calls info days (16/04/2025)

The LIFE Calls for proposals 2025 were published on the Funding and Tenders portal on 24 April 2025. To support potential applicants, the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) is hosting a series of online information sessions.

STEGRA: welcoming a new era of green steel production (16/04/2025)

Spearheading the development of the world’s first integrated large-scale green steel plant, this low-emission facility supported by the Innovation Fund will produce steel with significantly reduced CO2 emissions.

CEF Energy: on-site visit confirms advancements in the Biscay Gulf Interconnection (16/04/2025)

On 7 and 8 April, a delegation from CINEA visited key construction sites in both France and Spain, witnessing first-hand the project’s progress and technological ambition.

Green Assist: promoting sustainability through next-gen thermal technology (16/04/2025)

Addressing the need for sustainable insulation practices, ENERGAID aims to introduce a new solution for the air conditioning of confined spaces. With support from Green Assist, ENERGAID is well-positioned to bring its solution to the construction market.

E-Mobility revolution in Amsterdam (23/04/2025)

Explore how Amsterdam is pioneering sustainable urban transport. A CEF Transport funded project rolled out 128 electric buses and 160 charging stations, envisioning a future where residents can seamlessly commute from home to work and back using only electric-powered vehicles.

Time to get ready for your energy journey: EUSEW 2025 (22/04/2025)

The energy transition needs your presence, ideas, passion, and commitment. EUSEW 2025 is your opportunity to join a vibrant community driving real change. Register now, save the date, and get ready for three inspiring days of exchange, collaboration, and discovery.

EUCAD 2025: 5th European Conference on Connected and Automated Driving (22/04/2025)

Taking place in Ispra in Italy on 13-15 May, EUCAD 2025 will bring together leading industry experts, researchers and policymakers to take stock of the latest developments and challenges of cooperative, connected and automated mobility deployment in Europe.

Join us online for the Horizon Europe Cluster 5 Info Day (23/04/2025)

While onsite registration is closed, you can still join us online on 6 May to explore key research and innovation topics under Cluster 5: Climate, Energy and Mobility. Don’t miss your chance to learn more about funding opportunities and topics under the new work programme 2025.

#EULife25 Info Days (23/03/2025)

The 2025 LIFE Calls for Proposals are expected to be published on 24 April 2025. CINEA will host the #EULife25 Info Days online from 13 to 15 May 2025 to support potential applicants – register now!

Innovation Fund: EUR 4.2 billion to support 77 cutting-edge decarbonisation projects for the EU’s clean energy transition (23/03/2025)

The 77 projects hail from 18 European countries and were submitted under the Innovation Fund 2023 Call (IF23). The grants range from EUR 1.4 million to EUR 262 million and combined all the projects have the potential to reduce emissions by some 397.6 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent over their first ten years of operation.

Annual call for experts to evaluate CEF Energy proposals is now open! (23/03/2025)

We are looking for experienced professionals in the fields of energy infrastructure in general, and electricity, smart grids, renewables and CO2 networks in particular. Apply by 31 March and make a difference!

New CORDIS Results Pack on CCAM (23/03/2025)

Connected, Cooperative, and Automated Mobility (CCAM) is transforming Europe’s transport system – enhancing safety, efficiency, and accessibility. This new brochure showcases 15 EU-funded projects, addressing the technological, regulatory and social challenges of automated transport systems.

Register now for Horizon Europe Cluster 5 Info Day! (23/03/2025)

The Info Day on 6 May is your chance to learn about funding opportunities coming up in the areas of climate, energy and mobility. Join us onsite in Brussels or online to discover the topics in the 2025 Work Programme, with EUR 1.2 billion in available funding. Register by 31 March!

Registrations to attend EUSEW soon to be opened (23/03/2025)

Registrations for the 2025 European Sustainable Energy Week will open on 8 April. On the same day, the full programme will be released, allowing you to start planning your participation. In the meantime, you can update your profile or create one if you have not done so yet.

2025 Cleantech Conference: Advancing Europe's Clean Industrial Transition (24/03/2025)

Last chance! Want to hear from industry experts, stakeholders, and policymakers the latest updates on how the EU is advancing towards decarbonising Europe? Register now to follow the 2025 Cleantech Conference online, on 8 April.

Navigating the future of EU Fisheries through energy transition (23/03/2025)

The Energy Transition Partnership for EU fisheries and aquaculture organises a workshop on 7 April to advance the stakeholder’s input for the roadmap for energy transition in the sector. The focus will be on three areas: Small-Scale Coastal Fisheries, Large-Scale Fisheries and Distant Water Fleet.

Registrations open for the 2025 European Maritime Day (23/03/2025)

The European Maritime Day is the place where ‘Ocean Leaders Meet’. This year’s edition will take place in Cork, Ireland, from 21 to 23 May 2025. CINEA will participate with workshops (including on energy transition) and coordinate the EU Stand. Registrations are possible until 10 May.

EU awards EUR 7.8 million to develop next-generation power systems for green shipping (23/03/2025)

Today's shipping fleet is responsible for significant emissions and relies on heavy power systems not designed for renewable energy. Funded by the EU's Horizon Europe programme, the STEESMAT project aims to create a power system fit for the future.

Green Assist: Harnessing emissions for eco-friendly farming (23/03/2025)

As the world gets more and more receptive to sustainability, rethinking agriculture is becoming increasingly important. Supported by Green Assist, the Horizon Growers startup has developed innovative high-tech indoor farms that produce food in a sustainable way.

CEF Energy: visiting Porthos, the CO₂ transport backbone in the port of Rotterdam (23/03/2025)

CINEA recently visited the construction site of Porthos – the CO₂ transport backbone in the port of Rotterdam – and confirmed that all the works are progressing on track.

LIFE ensuring a Clean Energy Transition for all (23/03/2025)

As Europe’s clean energy transition celebrates another year of progress, we take a look at the LIFE SITRANS project, which aims to ensure traditional coal mining areas don’t get left behind.

Pioneering carbon capture for a lower emission future (24/03/2025)

Supported by the Innovation Fund, this first-of-its-kind project will demonstrate carbonate fuel cell (CFC) technology with the aim to reduce CO₂ emissions by 46,000 tonnes over its 5-year operation. Unlike conventional methods that require additional energy input, CFCs can simultaneously capture CO₂ emissions while generating electricity, hydrogen, and heat, making them a potential cost-effective and efficient solution for decarbonising heavy industry.

CEF Energy: EUR 1.25 billion allocated (16/02/2025)

41 cross-border energy infrastructure projects will receive EU support under the call for proposals launched in April 2024. This was the largest CEF Energy call, both in terms of number of applications submitted and the amount of funding granted, which largely exceeded the call’s initial indicative budget of EUR 850 million.

Discover all the LIFE Programme projects taking place in your country (16/02/2025)

Explore our LIFE in European countries page, where you will find your National Contact Point along with newly updated, detailed country factsheets.

2025 Cleantech Conference: Advancing Europe's Clean Industrial Transition (16/02/2025)

Registration is open for the 2025 Cleantech Conference. This year’s focus will be on how decarbonisation through innovation initiatives like the Innovation Fund can give the EU the upper hand in the race to climate neutrality. Join us on 8 April 2025, in Brussels or online.

#RTR2025: Over 90 EU funded projects showcased innovations in road transport (18/02/2025)

The RTR (Results from Road Transport Research) Conference held in Brussels on 11-13 February, attracted its largest audience to date. With 500 participants on-site, 400 participants online, and over 90 projects on stage, the event showed the importance of collaborative research in road transport at the European level.

Scaling up sustainable and competitive solutions for waterborne transport (16/02/2025)

Organised by the Waterborne Technology Platform, the Waterborne Days took place in Brussels on 4 and 5 February. The event brought together industry experts, researchers and policymakers to discuss trends and challenges facing the sector as well as listen to first-hand insights from many CINEA-managed projects.

The world’s first methanol-powered tugboat highlights a greener future for shipping (16/02/2025)

By converting ships to run on renewable liquid fuels, the EU-funded FASTWATER project is showing how transport emissions can be cut, offering significant progress towards the EU’s climate goals.

LIFE heating Danish homes via green district networks (16/02/2025)

As winter temperatures drop across northern Europe, homes and businesses are dialling up the heat. Across southern Denmark, the green energy transition is being driven by the LIFE COHEAT2 project.

CEF Energy: Optimising grid infrastructure for a greener future (16/02/2025)

As the world moves towards a more sustainable energy system, the GreenSwitch project is playing a key role in transforming the grid infrastructure in Austria, Slovenia and Croatia.

Green Assist: Producing sustainable end products from renewable raw materials (16/02/2025)

The STERCORE project turns waste into high-quality organic fertilisers and green energy. With expert guidance from Green Assist, STERCORE plans to bring to market a new solution to combat waste.

VOLTA: Powering hybrid furnace transition in Europe’s flat glass industry (20/02/2025)

Two of Europe's leading glass manufacturing groups, AGC and Saint-Gobain, have joined forces in a strategic partnership funded by the Innovation Fund to develop an innovative hybrid furnace that could reshape the flat glass industry and significantly reduce carbon emissions.

CIRQLAR: Transforming waste heat into sustainable power (16/02/2025)

Using advanced heat pump technology, a new innovative solution funded by the Innovation Fund aims to recover and upgrade waste heat from a refinery and producing steam that optimises energy consumption and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

LIFE behind the scenes of the clean energy transition (16/02/2025)

Not all LIFE projects feature eye-catching technologies or bring devastated habitats back to life. Some – such as LIFE NECPlatform – work quietly behind the scenes, but their impact is just as important. The LIFE NECPlatform multi-level governance and dialogue platform is essential for delivering the EU’s vision of a climate-neutral Europe by 2050.

EU-funded HY2FISH project sets sail for greener fishing (16/02/2025)

Last month, the European Commission and CINEA kicked off the HY2FISH project. The project, funded under the Pilot Projects and Preparatory Actions scheme, will retrofit a demonstrator fishing vessel off the Spanish coast to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fuel consumption.

LIFE helps Dutch homeowners make the clean energy transition (16/02/2025)

As the world marked the International Day of Clean Energy on 26 January, LIFE is making it easier for home owners in the Netherlands to save energy and money.

The Baltic States synchronise with the Continental European Network (16/02/2025)

On 9 February Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania connected to the European electricity grid via Poland, reducing their dependence on external energy systems and reinforcing their role within the EU energy market. CEF Energy funding has been fundamental in achieving this historic milestone in the Energy Union.

A year to be proud of the many successes of LIFE projects (19/01/2025)

The past 12 months have seen LIFE projects achieve landmark moments, win awards and welcome high-profile visitors to see their work. 2024 was an exciting year for LIFE projects, with recognition in awards and the media, while a few also welcomed some high-profile visitors to see their work in action.

EDA and European Commission sign grant for new phase in defence energy sustainability (19/01/2025)

The Consultation Forum for Sustainable Energy in the Defence and Security Sector (CF SEDSS) has entered its fourth phase (2024-2028), marking a new push in the EU’s energy and climate objectives to reach net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The CF SEDSS is an EU-funded initiative managed by EDA, comprising Europe’s largest defence energy community. It is now entering its fourth phase, and is funded by the LIFE Clean Energy Transition sub-programme.

Join us in shaping the future of sustainable aquaculture! (19/01/2025)

On 19 February 2025 join a new hybrid workshop of the Energy Transition Partnership (ETP) for the EU fisheries and aquaculture sector. The focus will be "Navigating the energy transition: Strategic goals for resilient and sustainable inland and offshore aquaculture."

EMFAF call for proposals to close on 18 February (19/01/2025)

There is only one month left to apply for the EMFAF call for proposals for a sustainable blue economy. EUR 5.7 million are available for flagships projects in EU sea basins on two different topics: 1) Smart specialisation in the sustainable blue economy 2) Regenerative ocean farming and algae innovation

Advancing sustainable maritime innovation in Northern Europe (19/01/2025)

The eMETHANOLxWSolution project, supported by the Innovation Fund, is developing a new type of vessel powered by methanol and wind-assisted propulsion, paving the way for a greener and more efficient maritime sector.

Position yourself strategically at EUSEW 2025 (21/01/2025)

To stand out from the crowd and connect in person with participants in the policy conference, apply to the Energy Fair call! Under the "Powering a fair and competitive green transition" theme, it is your chance to shape the conversation on Europe’s clean energy policies. Applications are also open to hold a Policy session (deadline on 28 January) and for the EUSEW Awards (30 January).

R&I shaping a sustainable future for waterborne transport (19/01/2025)

Taking place in Brussels on 4-5 February, the Waterborne Days offer an opportunity to dive deeper into the future of waterborne transport, with a strong focus on sustainability and competitiveness. The event also provides a showcase for EU research projects on key topics such as decarbonisation and sustainable fuels.

What to expect from LIFE in 2025 (19/01/2025)

A look ahead at some of the highlights for the LIFE programme over the next 12 months, including the Call for proposals 2025, the 33rd anniversary of the programme, LIFE Awards and EUSEW.

#RTR2025: Road Transport Research conference 2025 (19/01/2025)

The RTR Conference, taking place in Brussels on 11-13 February, is the unique entry point for learning more about achievements of EU-funded research projects in road transport – from green vehicles to logistics, automated road transport and much more.

2024 Innovation Fund Call and Battery Info Day (10/12/2024)

On 17 and 18 December, CINEA and DG CLIMA will present the key features and award criteria of two calls: the 2024 Innovation Fund Call makes EUR 2.4 billion  available for projects with significant potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in sectors such as cleantech manufacturing, maritime, renewables, energy storage and energy-intensive industries. The Battery call allocates EUR 1 billion for e-vehicle battery cell manufacturing projects that demonstrate innovative technologies, processes, or products.

Commission earmarks EUR 4.6 billion to boost net-zero technologies, electric vehicle battery cell manufacturing and renewable hydrogen under the Innovation Fund (10/12/2024)

The Innovation Fund has launched three new funding opportunities totalling EUR 4.6 billion to support the deployment of net-zero technologies (IF24 Call), electric vehicles battery cell manufacturing (IF24 Battery) and the production of renewable hydrogen via competitive bidding (IF24 Auction

Help co-create the 2025 European Sustainable Energy Week (10/12/2024)

The 2025 European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) is looking for proposals for organising policy sessions and candidates for the Awards. We are inviting all organisations, projects, public institutions, companies, NGOs, and research entities working in clean energy and shaping the future – your input is highly valued!

2024 Innovation Fund Auction Info Day – material available (10/12/2024)

The 2024 Innovation Fund Auction makes up to EUR 1.2 billion ️available via competitive bidding for producers of renewable hydrogen. The deadline to apply is 20 February 2025. The recording and presentations of the Info Day that took place on 10 December are available, with insights on the main objectives and design of the scheme, as well as on how to submit a successful application.

CEF Energy: 74 projects requesting approximately EUR 4 billion under the PCI & PMI calls (10/12/2024)

The submitted proposals hail from a total of 18 countries and cover the sectors of electricity, smart grids, gas, hydrogen and cross-border CO2 networks. The evaluation process is expected to be concluded by February 2025, after which the results will be announced.

FLORA receives the 2024 Atlantic Project Award (10/12/2024)

The FLORA project received the prestigious Atlantic Project Award for Marine Renewable Energy at the 11th Atlantic Stakeholder Platform Conference. The project, funded under the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund, is developing an industrial-scale prototype of an ocean station with renewable energy generation and oceanographic capabilities.

Ports and airports collaborating for a greener future from “Seas to Skies” (10/12/2024)

The five “EU Green Deal” projects for airports and ports joined forces at the Seas to Skies conference this week in Brussels Airport and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. The event offered a valuable opportunity to exchange on progress and challenges in the journey towards decarbonisation and sustainability.

Twelve Ukrainian cities join the SUN4Ukraine initiative of the EU Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission (10/12/2024)

Twelve municipalities from Ukraine are starting a transformative journey to climate-neutral rebuilding with support from the SUN4Ukraine initiative of the EU Cities Mission. The announcement was made at an event organised by the Association of Ukrainian Cities held in Kyiv on 2-3 December 2024.

LIFE heating Danish homes via green district networks (10/12/2024)

As winter temperatures drop across northern Europe, homes and businesses are dialling up the heat. Across southern Denmark, the green energy transition is being driven by LIFE COHEAT2.

EUSEW 2025: Calls for participation are now open! (18/11/2024)

The next European Sustainable Energy Week (EUSEW) will take place from 10–12 June 2025, in Brussels and online. Join us to help co-create Europe’s flagship conference on renewables and energy efficiency by seizing the first available opportunities.

Innovation Fund 2024 Auction Info Day (18/11/2024)

The IF24 Auction will open on 3 December and will award EUR 1.2 billion to producers of hydrogen categorised as Renewable Fuel of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO) which are located in the European Economic Area (EEA). Join the info session on 10 December to get more details on the key features of the Auction and ask your questions!

Innovation Fund 2024 Call and Battery Info Day (19/11/2024)

The upcoming Innovation Fund 2024 Call (IF24 Call) and Battery call (IF24 Battery) are allocating up to EUR 3.4 billion from the EU’s Emissions Trading System revenues to support the deployment of innovative net-zero technologies in Europe. Don't get lost in the application process and join the online Info Day on 17-18 December.

IF expert campaign 2024 (20/11/2024)

CINEA is calling on expert evaluators and rapporteurs to evaluate proposals to be received under the new calls for proposals under the Innovation Fund. This is a unique opportunity to evaluate the most innovative and disruptive net-zero project proposals, which will contribute to the decarbonisation of Europe using breakthrough technologies.

All EU-funded projects on sustainable blue economy in one click (18/11/2024)

A new dashboard and a project portfolio overview collect the key information about EU projects funded under the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund since 2014. As we celebrate #10yearsEMFaF, the project portfolio overview comes at the right time to show the great contribution of these projects to the European maritime landscape.

LIFE at Pollutec 2024 (18/11/2024)

Pollutec, the key international trade show focused on environmental and climate solutions, will take place in Paris on 26 - 27 November, featuring active participation from the LIFE Programme with 17 projects at our stand.

Seas to Skies Conference: Greening ports and airports in the EU (18/11/2024)

Registration is open for this pivotal event taking place on 3 and 4 December 2024 in Brussels and Antwerp. Join for key insights from EU research projects focused on the decarbonisation of ports and airports, and topical discussions on issues such as alternative fuels and smart energy management.

Hydrogen for a sustainable Europe (19/11/2024)

The European Union is committed to becoming climate-neutral by 2050. Hydrogen, particularly hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources, is a key enabler in the transition to a climate-neutral economy. This publication highlights the range of EU funding programmes working to support hydrogen initiatives and projects.

CEF Energy projects at the core of the PCI Energy Days (18/11/2024)

On 4 and 5 November, stakeholders of the energy infrastructure sector gathered in Brussels to celebrate the 5th edition of the PCI Energy Days. The event featured a policy conference focusing on large-scale energy infrastructure and an exhibition area where #CEFEnergy funded projects showcased their achievements. Finally, 5 new CO2 projects officially signed their grant agreements under CEF Energy at the event.

Green Assist: Reducing the carbon footprint through biogas desulphurisation (18/11/2024)

A European-wide research consortium has developed a new technology that offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to current biogas desulphurisation methods. Supported by the EU’s Green Assist, this project aims to bring this technology to market soon to help decarbonise the EU’s economy and reduce pollution.

LIFE: tackling energy poverty across Europe (18/11/2024)

Local governments, policymakers, experts and stakeholders gathered in Barcelona last month to demonstrate sustainable solutions to address energy poverty. Several LIFE projects dealing with this issue were present and showcased their proposed solutions.

ELYAS: advancing hydrogen technology for Europe’s clean energy transition (19/11/2024)

The ELYAS project is transforming Bosch's plant in Germany into a production hub for electrolysis stacks, supporting Europe’s shift to clean energy. Backed by nearly EUR 52 million from the Innovation Fund, the project enables scalable hydrogen production, aiming to cut CO2 emissions by 23.4 million tonnes, and strengthens regional economies through job preservation, a local supply chain and sustainable industrial innovation.

Europe’s construction professionals skilled for LIFE (18/11/2024)

From deep renovation of residential buildings to smart homes, Europe’s clean energy transition needs skilled construction workers. Two recently-closed LIFE projects set out to map skill shortages and training gaps in Hungary and France.

LIFE CLEANAIRMM: How did LIFE help Instagrid deliver clean, off-grid energy? (18/11/2024)

At an early stage, Instagrid received funding through the LIFE CLEANAIRMM project. Today, they are worth more than EUR 350 million and have shipped around 30,000 units of their product. We spoke to Sarah Fichtner to learn more about their journey as a LIFE beneficiary.

EU invests EUR 4.8 billion of emissions trading revenues into innovative net-zero projects (23/10/2024)

The Commission has selected 85 innovative net-zero projects to receive EUR 4.8 billion in grants from the Innovation Fund, helping to put cutting-edge clean technologies into action across Europe. Over their first ten years of operation, the selected projects are expected to reduce emissions by about 476 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent.

Record response to the LIFE 2024 call for proposals (22/10/2024)

A record 895 applications requesting a total of more than EUR 2.7 billion in EU funding were received in response to the LIFE 2024 calls for proposals for nature, environment, climate action and clean energy projects.

CEF Transport: Over EUR 609 million requested for alternative fuel supply infrastructure (20/10/2024)

59 project proposals requesting more than EUR 609 million in EU co-funding have been submitted under the first cut-off deadline (24 September 2024) of the CEF Transport Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility. CINEA will check the admissibility and eligibility of the proposals which will then be evaluated against the specific award criteria of the call.

Innovation Fund: Six new supported projects for renewable hydrogen (20/10/2024)

Six renewable hydrogen projects have signed their respective grant agreements, advancing them towards implementation and paving the way for new hydrogen European production. The total amount of support comes to EUR 694 521 237 and will be disbursed over a timespan of ten years. The next auction is expected to open on 3 December 2024 and will award up to EUR 1.2 billion support to renewable hydrogen producers located in the European Economic Area (EEA). The Terms and Conditions have already been published.

Over EUR 380 million for 133 new LIFE projects (22/10/2024)

59 new projects, mobilising EUR 105 million (EUR 99 million EU contribution) for governance and market solutions to accelerate the clean energy transition.

2024 CIVITAS Forum: Steering the mobility renaissance together (20/10/2024)

Around 600 delegates gathered in the Italian city of Parma on 1-3 October for the Civitas Forum, which connects urban mobility practitioners. Over the three days, attendees heard from the cities and innovative projects transforming urban mobility systems towards a greener, cleaner future.

H2020 Energy project LEAP-RE meets with the African Union (20/10/2024)

Find out more on how the LEAP-RE EU funded project seeks to create a long-term partnership of African and European stakeholders involving government (programme owners and funding agencies), research and academia, private sector, and civil society.

BeFlexible: Future-proofing Europe's electricity grids for a flexible and sustainable energy supply (20/10/2024)

Energy transition is a top priority across Europe and the European Union is facing new challenges to adapt its energy systems and infrastructure. The Horizon Europe BeFlexible project aims at accelerating this transition with innovative solutions to integrate sustainable energy sources.

LIFE brings power to citizen energy projects (22/10/2024)

In the north east of Spain, a green revolution is taking place, solar panel by solar panel. LIFE JALON is powering rural villages and connecting citizens, local authorities, and businesses

CEF Energy: Supporting cross-border projects boosting the use of renewables (20/10/2024)

On the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the CEF Energy programme, find out about the supported projects that stand out as a crucial links in strengthening the energy landscape of different regions. Spotlight on the Eneregio SOBOS (exploring the potential of district heating) and CICERONE (looking at developing green hydrogen and ammonia infrastructure).

CEF Energy: ACON and Danube InGrid – improving distribution grid infrastructure (20/10/2024)

Both projects stand out for the work in modernising and improving the distribution grid's efficiency at different locations in Czechia and Slovakia to match growing demand for renewable energy sources.

Europe’s construction professionals skilled for LIFE (22/10/2024)

From deep renovation of residential buildings to smart homes, Europe’s clean energy transition needs skilled construction workers. Two recently-closed LIFE projects set out to map skill shortages and training gaps in Hungary and France.

King of the Netherlands inaugurates electrolyser for green hydrogen funded by LIFE (22/10/2024)

The LIFE project NEW HYTS aims to revolutionise heavy transport through the deployment of hydrogen-powered vehicles.

HYPERRIDE: Implementing DC and hybrid AC-DC grids across Europe (20/10/2024)

HYPERRIDE contributes to the field implementation of DC and hybrid AC-DC grids by identifying and providing solutions for a successful roll-out of new infrastructure across Europe.

PRIMUS: Leading the way to sustainable crystal glass production in Europe (20/10/2024)

The Innovation Fund PRIMUS project is driving Europe’s sustainable crystal glass production. By introducing a hybrid furnace, the project is set to cut 42,000 tonnes of CO2 in the next decade and boost energy efficiency in the glass industry.

ATOMS: Reducing operation and maintenance costs for offshore wind farms (20/10/2024)

The EMFF funded ATOMS project tested a new technology for large corrective maintenance operations of offshore wind turbines, which does not rely on the use of heavy-lift jack vessels. This significantly reduces both costs and environmental impact.