De-risking Wave Energy Technology Development Through Transnational Pre-Commercial Procurement of Wave Energy Research and Development

The focus areas of this initiative include: de-risking wave energy technology development through transnational pre-commercial procurement (PCP) processes, completion of Stage 4 activities of the International Energy Agency Ocean Energy System (IEA-OES) Framework Evaluation Areas including technical, socio-economic, and sustainability aspects, improving efficiency and flexibility of wave energy producers and consumers, enabling reduced costs, and enhancing reliability, robustness, and security compared to existing wave energy technologies.

This action supports the operation of wave energy prototypes in real sea conditions as a critical step to build confidence and facilitate large-scale roll-out of renewable wave energy. Projects should target development and demonstration of cost-effective wave energy converters capable of surviving harsh and unpredictable ocean environments. The pre-commercial procurement mechanism serves as an effective tool to steer wave energy development on a European scale.

Participating entities such as users and buyers of research and development services from pan-European, national, or regional levels are expected to define a common set of performance levels and specifications for wave energy systems. The procurement supports the progression of technology readiness from Stage 3 (minimum prior development requirement) to Stage 4 (target readiness) of the IEA-OES Framework. The action is expected to culminate in at least two commercial-scale demonstrators, tested for at least 12 months in commercially representative sites, with results shared across the European industry to accelerate technology development and establish guidelines and standards.

Participants include a minimum of three legal entities from different member states or Horizon Europe associated countries and at least two public procurers. Other involved entities may contribute to preparation, execution, or coordination activities of the PCP.

Expected outcomes from funded projects include better access to financing for wave energy technology providers through improved understanding of technological solutions and bankability, increased knowledge and monitoring tools on environmental, biodiversity, and socio-economic impacts of wave energy technologies across their lifecycle and value chains, cost reduction pathways and detailed commercialization business plans, and a significant boost in wave energy research and development through pooled national and EU funding resources.

Overall, this funding opportunity aims to deliver technologies at least ready for Stage 4 demonstration activities, ready to advance toward commercial-scale array demonstration phases, while accelerating sustainable, secure, and competitive energy supply through innovative wave energy solutions.

The Commission estimates that an EU contribution of around EUR 20.00 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 20.00 million.

For more information, visit EC.