Underground Thermal Energy Storage in dense urban areas

This program targets a broad range of entities, including academic institutions, SMEs, and research organizations, with a focus on collaborative projects. The geographical scope extends across the European Union and Associated Countries, with possibilities for participation from other non-EU/non-Associated countries. The primary goal is to foster innovative solutions for underground thermal energy storage to enhance energy security and decarbonize urban areas.

This funding supports the development and deployment of novel underground thermal energy storage (UTES) solutions in urban environments. Funded activities span across various temperatures and include the integration of UTES with existing energy grids and urban infrastructure, alongside the development of advanced monitoring and modeling tools.

The program provides grants as a financial instrument, with a significant budget allocation designed to support a limited number of high-impact projects focusing on underground thermal energy storage solutions.

Applicants must adhere to specific administrative, financial, and collaborative conditions outlined in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes. Key requirements include compliance with proposal formatting, eligibility criteria, financial capacity assessments, and a mandatory consortium structure with a strong emphasis on societal engagement and the integration of Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) disciplines.

The application process for this call is a single-stage submission, opening in September 2025 with a deadline in February 2026. Evaluation will follow established Horizon Europe criteria and procedures.

The program operates under the comprehensive legal framework of the Horizon Europe Programme, underpinned by specific regulations and decisions that govern its implementation, financial management, and operational aspects.