Second call Innovation Fund for small-scale projects will open soon
The first call of the new EU-programme Innovation Fund – focussing on reducing CO2 emissions – closed at the end of October (first round, Expression of Interest). Over 300 applications were submitted, with a total requested budget of € 21.7 billion! This call was aimed at large-scale projects. The second call will open on December 1 and is intended for small-scale projects with a CAPEX of less than € 7.5 million.
Source: European Commission
Webinar DG CLIMA on November 19 | New aspects
DG CLIMA organised a second Innovation Fund webinar on Thursday November 19. During this webinar a number of new aspects were presented:
Sectors
Just like the first call, the second call focuses on the following sectors:
- Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS);
- Low-carbon technologies / processes in energy intensive industries;
- Renewable energy generation;
- Energy storage.
Criteria
The webinar also confirmed that the same criteria still apply:
- GHG emissions avoidance;
- degree of innovation;
- project maturity;
- scalability;
- cost efficiency.
The last criteria is related to the expected amount of CO2-reduction in relation to the grant amount.
Simplifications
The second call will be simplified in certain aspects. For example, the methodology of calculating the reduction of CO2 emissions will be simplified (details will follow). Furthermore, up to 60% of the CAPEX/investment costs of a project will be supported.
Future webinars
Shortly after the launch of the second call, DG CLIMA will host another webinar on December 9. More webinars will follow from January 2021 onward.
Applying for Innovation Fund
Deadline: you have until March 10, 2021, to submit your project proposal. The budget of this call remains unchanged with a total of € 100 million. Contrary to the first call, which existed of two rounds, there is only one round / stage during which interested parties can submit a full proposal (also known as a single stage deadline model).
Need support?
Hezelburcht has supported several other applicants with their proposals during the first Innovation Fund call. Proposal topics included e.g. plastic recycling, the production of methanol and the production of steel. We are very familiar with the Innovation Fund programme and are able to offer excellent support with drafting your proposal.
Because of the single stage procedure, it is important to submit a complete and strong application. Do you consider submitting an application? We would be pleased to support you!
Personal advice? Contact us!
Or call us directly: 088 495 20 00
