Deadline Date: November 09, 2025
The Smart Energy Efficiency Innovation Challenge is an initiative launched by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Algeria in partnership with the National Agency for the Promotion and Rationalization of Energy Use (APRUE) to foster local innovation for intelligent energy management across Algeria.
Focus Areas: The challenge focuses on energy savings, smart management, digitalization and automation, predictive maintenance and equipment optimization, comfort and health of occupants, energy renovation of existing buildings, and smart demand management and storage.
This national innovation challenge forms part of the UNDP–APRUE partnership under the National Energy Management Programme (PNME 2015–2030). It aims to catalyze innovative, inclusive, and scalable solutions that improve energy efficiency, promote renewable energy, and strengthen Algeria’s energy resilience. The initiative supports the country’s broader transition toward low-carbon, sustainable development while advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 7 and SDG 13.
The program invites participation from startups, SMEs, independent innovators, research centers, universities, associations, and foundations working on energy efficiency and GreenTech solutions. Eligible projects may fall into three categories: Ideation (TRL 1–2) with funding up to 1,000,000 DZD, Prototyping (TRL 3–7) with up to 1,500,000 DZD, and Turnkey Deployment (TRL 8–9) with up to 2,000,000 DZD. Each selected project will receive financial support and mentoring, including coaching, networking, and visibility opportunities.
To qualify, applicants must be Algerian or legally residing in Algeria, demonstrate relevant experience or research activity in energy efficiency or innovation, and ensure inclusivity by promoting gender equality and youth participation. Projects are expected to have measurable impacts such as energy savings, emission reductions, and job creation, especially for women and young people.
Submissions must be made online through the official platform by November 9, 2025, and proposals will undergo a three-stage evaluation covering eligibility, quality, and alignment with national energy priorities. Three winners, one per category, will receive funding and technical support to implement their projects over six months, from December 2025 to June 2026.
The initiative also aims to strengthen Algeria’s energy innovation ecosystem by promoting co-creation and local ownership. Selected solutions must be at least 70% Algerian in origin, contributing directly to national energy management goals and supporting the country’s transition toward a just and sustainable energy future.
For more information, visit UNDP.
