The European Union's strategic leadership—embodied in the European Green Deal, the Circular Economy Action Plan, and the Zero Pollution Action Plan—paves the way for sustainable innovations. And with Horizon Europe's Cluster 5 calls for proposals, this vision for a sustainable and energy efficient world is rapidly moving into reality. Horizon Europe is a unique opportunity for Europe to lead the world in the development of renewable energy sources and technologies. By investing in sustainable energy projects and technologies, the EU can make a significant contribution to the fight against climate change.
Embracing EU strategies for a resilient and sustainable future
At the heart of Europe's vision for a sustainable future lies a set of strategic plans, each a vital part of the mechanism of change. The European Green Deal sets a course for the continent to become the first climate-neutral bloc by 2050, paving the way with ambitious policies and investments. The Circular Economy Action Plan is a key component, aimed at separating economic growth from resource use while transitioning to a regenerative growth model. The Zero Pollution Action Plan strengthens this commitment, targeting a toxic-free environment. The EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability emphasizes the commitment to a greener and safer industry, as it drives the chemicals transition pathway towards a non-toxic environment. These strategies are commitments to the protection of citizens and natural habitats, and they underpin the European Union's Horizon Europe program.
With the latest Cluster 5 calls for proposals, Horizon Europe aligns perfectly with these EU priorities, by securing the competitiveness of the EU and ensuring the transition to a circular, energy-efficient, renewable, and climate-neutral economy. Here’s an insight into the future topics that are setting the stage for a greener, more efficient, and community-centric Europe, with funding opportunities opening in May 2024.
Horizon Europe - Cluster 5 topics opening starting from May 2024
In the following, we will describe 9 topics under Cluster 5 Horizon Europe related to the batteries, building and photovoltaic domains. To give you a clearer picture of the exciting opportunities ahead, below is a concise table detailing the forthcoming Horizon Europe Cluster 5 topics, complete with deadlines, types of actions (RIA/Research and Innovation Action, IA/Innovation Action), funding models, and funding rates.
1. Size & weight reduction of cell and packaging of batteries system, integrating lightweight and functional materials, innovative thermal management and safe and sustainable by design approach
In HORIZON-CL5-2024-D2-02-03, a robust 16 million euros fund is allocated to drive innovation in battery technology. The focus on lightweight and functional materials, advanced thermal management, and sustainable design underlines Europe's strategy to lead in electrified mobility solutions. This is an investment in a vision that advances the electric vehicle industry forward, minimizing environmental impact while maximizing safety and efficiency.
2. Sustainable high-throughput production processes for stable lithium metal anodes for next generation batteries
With a funding of 8 million euros for topic HORIZON-CL5-2024-D2-02-01, the EU is leading the advancement of lithium metal anodes, pushing the boundaries of energy storage. This investment signals a move towards enhancing the longevity and stability of batteries, essential for a resilient and sustainable energy ecosystem.
3. Post-Li-ion technologies and relevant manufacturing techniques for mobility applications (Generation 5)
A funding of 15 million euros is dedicated to the topic HORIZON-CL5-2024-D2-02-02 preparing for Generation 5 batteries, focusing on safety and the use of alternative cations. This step into post-lithium-ion technology is about evolving and revolutionizing mobility.
4. Industrialization of sustainable and circular deep renovation workflow
Topic HORIZON-CL5-2024-D4-02-01 allocates 16 million euros towards redefining building renovations. Targeting a 30% reduction in waste, cost, and work time, it aims for nearly zero-energy buildings that don't compromise on comfort or air quality. It stands as an exemplar of how sustainability and living standards can rise hand in hand, promising a change in the construction industry's approach to renovations.
5. Innovative, community-integrated PV systems
A 10 million euros funding is dedicated to the topic HORIZON-CL5-2024-D3-02-06 to support the integration of photovoltaic systems within renewable energy communities. It’s a call to action for society to actively participate in the energy transition, a movement to democratize energy and reinforce the crucial role of communal participation in creating a sustainable future.
6. Digital tools for CSP and solar thermal plants
6 million euros are allocated to the topic HORIZON-CL5-2024-D3-02-01 to use artificial intelligence and digital tools to streamline CSP (Concentrated Solar Panels) and solar thermal plants' operations. This is an initiative that stands at the intersection of energy and digital technology, optimizing efficiency and reducing costs.
7. Resource efficiency of PV in production, use and disposal
With a clear vision for the life cycle of photovoltaic (PV) systems, this 3 million euros topic (HORIZON-CL5-2024-D3-02-07) is an investment in the future of sustainable production, use, and disposal of photovoltaic technology, embracing a circular economy.
8. BIM-based processes and digital twins for facilitating and optimizing circular energy renovation
For this topic (HORIZON-CL5-2024-D4-02-03), 8 million euros funding is invested into the use of BIM (Building Information Modelling) and digital twins for energy renovation, reflecting a future where smart technology is coupled with sustainable construction practices.
10. PV-integrated electric mobility applications
This topic HORIZON-CL5-2024-D3-02-05 comes with a significant funding envelope of 14 million euros aiming to smoothly merge photovoltaic (PV) technology with electric mobility. The topic supports the development of Vehicle Integrated Photovoltaic (VIPV) systems and the expansion of PV charging infrastructure for electric vehicles and buses.
Horizon Europe's Cluster 5 topics are a significant leap towards the EU's sustainability targets and offer significant opportunities for innovation-driven organizations. As we make use of the power of these programs, we pave the way for a future where green energy is envisioned and realized. The transition to sustainable energy systems is a delicate mix of innovation, policy, and community engagement, with Horizon Europe acting as both the facilitator and coordinator. The funding opportunities opening starting from May 2024 are invitations to participate in shaping a resilient, efficient, and clean future.
At NETO Innovation, we understand the details of this transition. Our team of experts stands ready to guide and support your efforts in aligning with these important Cluster 5 calls. Together, we can build the sustainable foundations that future generations will thank us for. Reach out to us to navigate this landscape of opportunity and innovation, where your projects can grow and contribute to a sustainable and prosperous Europe.
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