Call for funding "1st innovation competition for energy districts"
The Federal Ministry of Economics is launching the "1st Energy Neighborhoods Innovation Competition" to put climate-friendly, resilient and efficient solutions for existing neighborhoods into practice
18.05.2026
Source: Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy
The Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE) has launched the "1st Energy Neighborhoods Innovation Competition".
The aim of the competition is to develop innovative and transferable solutions for the climate-friendly, resilient and energy-efficient transformation of existing districts and put them into practice.
The focus is primarily on neighborhoods used for residential purposes, which are to be considered holistically. We are looking for concepts that combine energy supply, architecture, economic efficiency and social aspects and go well beyond existing standards.
The competition is part of the BMWE's 8th energy research program and is divided into three phases: DESIGN, BUILD and OPERATE. In the first phase, up to ten projects can be funded with up to one million euros each. The best concepts then qualify for the implementation and operation phases with further funding.
The program is aimed at alliances from the housing industry, energy suppliers, research institutions, local authorities and companies. Start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises are also expressly encouraged to participate. Among other things, the degree of innovation, feasibility, climate impact and transferability of the concepts will be assessed.
The deadline for submitting project outlines is October 2, 2026.
Further information can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy