New call for funding: German-Chilean cooperation on the energy transition

12.08.2025

Source: Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space

The Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) is launching a new call for funding for joint research and innovation projects with Chile.

The aim is to expand bilateral cooperation in the field of green hydrogen and sustainable lithium value creation.

The call is part of the German government's internationalization strategy and the framework announcement on research and innovation cooperation with Latin America and the Caribbean. It is based on the cooperation agreement between Germany and Chile from 2012.

Background

Chile is pursuing ambitious plans for the energy transition:

• Development of a large electrolysis capacity for green hydrogen
• Production of low-cost green hydrogen for export and domestic consumption
• Sustainable further development of the lithium industry for climate-friendly battery production

Germany's National Hydrogen Strategy also emphasizes the importance of international partnerships - a solid basis for joint research projects.

Funding content

Funding is available for projects on the following topics:

• Technological developments for sustainable, cost-effective hydrogen production from renewable energies
• Prototypes for the use of green hydrogen in energy-intensive sectors such as mining, transportation or industry
• Technologies to strengthen local supply chains in Chile
• Research into sustainable lithium extraction, higher yields and lower water consumption
• Development of materials and components with higher added value for batteries

Funding conditions

• Eligible to apply: Universities, non-university research institutions, companies (especially SMEs)
• Maximum funding amount: €300,000 per German project
• Project duration: up to 36 months
• Submission deadline for project outlines: October 15, 2025
• Procedure: two-stage (project outline → full application)
• Special feature: Only projects that have been positively evaluated in both countries will be funded.

Further information can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space.