Funding for Applied Energy Research within the 8th Energy Research Program

The 8th Energy Research Program of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) supports a variety of stakeholders in Germany working on the research and development of non-nuclear energy technologies. The goal is to advance the energy transition and strengthen competencies for solving specific energy problems.

This program supports project-related activities in research, development, and innovation of non-nuclear energy technologies. It covers a wide range of focus areas from renewable energies and storage technologies to system integration and societal aspects of the energy transition, with a focus on advancing the state of the art.

Funding is provided in the form of a grant, with variable funding rates depending on the type of applicant. For commercial enterprises, the rate is 50% of eligible costs, while universities and non-university institutions can receive up to 100%. The program is designed for continuous application, with project duration varying depending on complexity.

Eligibility for funding is tied to conditions, including a contribution to the objectives of the 8th Energy Research Program, strengthening problem-solving competence, and advancing the state of the art. Projects must be carried out and exploited in Germany. Applicants must demonstrate the necessary technical qualifications and should check whether supplementary EU funding is possible. The application process is two-stage, starting with a concept outline.

The application process is two-stage and begins with the submission of a project outline to assess eligibility. Upon positive feedback, a detailed project description is submitted, and application forms and questionnaires are completed via the easy-Online portal. Apart from specific calls for proposals, submission is possible at any time, with processing times varying depending on project complexity.

This funding program is based on the Funding Announcement for Applied Energy Research within the 8th Energy Research Program of the BMWK from April 25, 2024. In addition, there are several specific calls for proposals that create further legal frameworks. The official texts are accessible online via the web links provided by the BMWK and the Federal Gazette.