Development of hydropower technologies and water management schemes allowing for win-win situation of flexible hydropower and biodiversity improvement – Societal Readiness Pilot

This section outlines the beneficiaries and strategic aims of the program, focusing on the development of hydropower technologies and water management schemes that benefit both flexible hydropower generation and biodiversity. It targets entities capable of contributing to research and innovation in these areas across EU Member States and Associated Countries, with a strong emphasis on integrating societal needs and concerns.

This section details the types of projects and thematic areas eligible for funding, specifically emphasizing solutions for existing run-of-river or reservoir hydropower plants. The program supports research and innovation aiming for a win-win optimization of energy generation and environmental performance, covering specific costs as lump sum contributions and targeting projects at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4-5.

This section clarifies the financial support provided, which is in the form of a lump sum grant with a maximum contribution of 4,000,000 € per expected grant. The program, part of Horizon Europe, has an indicative budget of 12,000,000 € for this topic, supporting Research and Innovation Actions.

This section highlights the key conditions for applicants, including admissibility criteria, financial and operational capacity requirements, and specific stipulations for consortium formation. As a Societal Readiness Pilot, the program mandates an interdisciplinary approach with significant integration of Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) expertise across all project activities, ensuring responsiveness to societal needs. Funding is provided as lump sum contributions, simplifying financial reporting.

This section details the step-by-step application process and how proposals are selected. Applications are submitted electronically through a single-stage process, and evaluation is based on criteria of excellence, impact, and quality of implementation. Successful applicants are notified following a defined timeline, leading to the grant agreement.

This section outlines the foundational legal and official documents that authorize, establish, and govern the funding program. It identifies the primary source of its legitimacy and any significant overarching regulations that shape its operation. These legal texts ensure compliance and provide the framework for the program's implementation.