Deadline: February 17, 2026
The European Commission has launched the Horizon Europe call to support the development of innovative solutions that enhance the security of renewable energy value chains.
Strengthened European knowledge base, skills, research and industrial leadership on solutions for energy-security related aspects of renewable energy value chains; Technical and value chain solutions are developed addressing key aspects improving the energy security of renewable energy technologies; Strengthened availability of skilled labour (crafts, science and business) in order to increase the intra-European share of entire value chains; Improved competitiveness, sustainability including social awareness, and resilience of European renewable energy value chains.
This opportunity seeks to improve Europe’s clean energy system by addressing energy-security challenges within renewable energy technology value chains. The call encourages projects that deliver in-depth assessments and novel solutions to overcome critical aspects that limit the performance, sustainability, and resilience of renewable energy systems.
Applicants must focus on only one of three designated areas. The first is the sustainability and social awareness of specific renewable energy value chains, particularly hydropower or bioenergy, which may hinder their long-term deployment. The second is skills development for renewable energy value chains, tackling shortages that affect innovation and clean energy deployment. The third is complexity within renewable energy value chains such as grid-based RFNBOs or direct solar fuels, addressing issues like substrate market interactions or technological interfaces.
The action is structured as a Coordination and Support Action with an indicative budget of EUR 6 million, funding approximately three projects with an expected EU contribution of EUR 2 million per project. Proposals are expected to align with the Study on clean energy R&I opportunities to ensure European energy security by targeting challenges of distinct energy value chains for 2030 and beyond, ensuring long-term relevance.
The Commission estimates that an EU contribution of around EUR 2.00 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 6.00 million.
For more information, visit EC.
