The EU’s Innovation Fund is set to invest €2.9 billion in 61 projects in its newest funding round aimed at deploying net-zero technologies.
These projects will focus on several key areas including energy-intensive industries, renewable energy and energy storage, net-zero mobility and buildings, cleantech manufacturing, and industrial carbon management.
All selected projects align with the Clean Industrial Deal, the EU’s comprehensive blueprint for transforming its decarbonisation efforts into a driver for economic growth. This strategic plan was presented in February and outlines the path forward for sustainable industrial transformation.
Under the Clean Industrial Deal, the European Commission aims to create a smoother pipeline that facilitates the transition from green technology innovation to large-scale deployment. This includes accelerating projects originally funded by the €93.5 billion Horizon Europe research programme.
However, it is important to note that Horizon Europe and the Innovation Fund are not a natural match. While Horizon Europe projects often focus on developing the right technology, additional steps are needed to bridge these innovations to commercial deployment.
The Investment from the Innovation Fund is a crucial step in supporting this transition and bringing cutting-edge net-zero solutions closer to market readiness.
https://sciencebusiness.net/news/r-d-funding/innovation-fund-invests-eu29-billion-net-zero-tech
