Deadline: 4-January-2026
The Renewables SiteFinder Challenge 2026 by Energie AG Oberösterreich aims to revolutionize the identification of suitable areas for renewable energy projects through AI-powered automation and data-driven mapping solutions.
Focus Areas/Objectives/Priorities/Themes: The goal of this challenge is to design an AI-based, configurable, and auditable software solution that automates the identification, evaluation, and export of potential wind and PV development parcels in Austria and beyond. The solution should enable dynamic application of exclusion and restriction criteria, variable buffer zones, and scenario-based comparisons while ensuring traceability and legal conformity. Ultimately, the aim is to deliver a scalable digital tool that accelerates renewable project development, increases spatial planning transparency, and supports data-driven investment decisions.
Manual identification of suitable “white areas” for wind and photovoltaic (PV) project development remains slow, error-prone, and inconsistent across regions. Analysts currently spend extensive time defining and excluding areas such as nature conservation zones, water protection areas, and settlement zones based on variable regulations. This inefficient process limits transparency, delays project development, and hinders strategic decision-making. The challenge seeks to transform this process by leveraging AI to automate and standardize geospatial analysis.
The envisioned solution should provide automated geoprocessing to generate reproducible white area maps using standard geospatial layers and allow configurable rule sets tailored to different jurisdictions. It must support scenario management for rapid comparisons with full traceability of inputs and configurations. The system should also produce scoring and feasibility metadata, covering aspects such as legal compliance, spatial planning fit, and funding eligibility. Additionally, it should offer export functions and API integrations with GIS systems and project developer toolchains to ensure smooth interoperability.
Energie AG expects participating startups to develop scalable, high-performance solutions capable of operating across national and international contexts. AI-supported prioritization based on spatial, technical, and regulatory indicators will be key to identifying the most viable development opportunities. Through this challenge, the company aims to accelerate renewable project development and foster innovation in spatial energy planning.
Selected startups will receive funding of up to €50,000 to develop a Proof of Concept (PoC) or Minimum Viable Product (MVP), along with access to Energie AG’s data, expert know-how, and potential for a long-term partnership if the solution is a strong match.
Applications must be submitted by January 4th, 2026, and successful proposals may receive collaboration opportunities with Energie AG’s expert teams.
For more information, visit Energie AG Oberösterreich.
