Deadline: February 17, 2026
The European Commission has announced funding support for the demonstration of innovative thermal energy storage solutions for solar thermal plants and systems, aiming to significantly improve performance, cost-effectiveness, and lifespan.
Project proposals must address the demonstration of thermal energy storage solutions in concentrated solar power (CSP) and/or solar thermal heat and/or cold. Key objectives include achieving substantial improvements over the current state of the art in performance, cost-effectiveness, and life span, completing a clear go/no-go milestone before entering the demonstration phase, delivering detailed engineering plans, techno-economic assessments, and obtaining all necessary permits for the demonstrator. Projects are required to assess the sustainability of proposed solutions from environmental and socio-economic perspectives and consider the Commission’s Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) framework as a reference. An effective contribution of Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) expertise is needed to support Societal Readiness, addressing societal engagement and concerns in the research and innovation process.
The demonstration projects should provide a pathway and timeline for permits acquisition, ensuring readiness for practical deployment. Technology providers will benefit from the successful demonstration and de-risking of thermal energy storage solutions, enhancing the dispatchability of solar thermal systems. Electricity grid operators will gain access to reliable options facilitating the integration of variable renewable energy sources and reducing curtailments. The initiative supports the execution of the solar thermal implementation plan of the Strategic Energy Technology Plan (SET Plan) and the solar energy joint research and innovation agenda.
The demonstration must be conducted at a realistic and representative scale, covering a continuous interval of at least six months to validate improved reliability, cost reduction, and extended life span. The project should foster inclusive societal engagement that is sensitive to technical specifics and social challenges, such as local resource conditions and public awareness, particularly in the context of urban and densely populated areas.
Expected outcomes include a significant reduction in the levelised cost of heat storage (LCOHS) and levelised cost of energy (LCOE), enhanced security of renewable-based energy systems, and contribution to the decarbonisation goals. The projects play a crucial role in advancing European leadership in renewable energy technologies while facilitating a sustainable and secure energy supply for the future.
The Commission estimates that an EU contribution of around EUR 7.50 million would allow these outcomes to be addressed appropriately. Nonetheless, this does not preclude submission and selection of a proposal requesting different amounts.
The total indicative budget for the topic is EUR 15.00 million.
For more information, visit EC.
