EnerTECH+: ESF+ program strengthens knowledge transfer for hydrogen, storage and efficiency

23.02.2026

Source: Institute for Hydrogen and Energy Technology at Hof University of Applied Sciences (iwe)

EnerTECH+ is a new knowledge transfer project for future technologies of the energy transition.

The project is funded by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) and is aimed in particular at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that want to gain access to reliable technological expertise at an early stage.

The focus is on so-called STEP technologies, which address the central challenges of the energy transition - including security of supply, system stability and the efficient use of limited resources. Network members can use the services free of charge.

Focus on three thematic clusters

EnerTECH+ structures the transfer of knowledge into three thematic clusters:

1. decentralized hydrogen supply
The development of a competitive European hydrogen economy requires sound technological and regulatory knowledge. EnerTECH+ systematically prepares existing and new approaches to decentralized hydrogen production. In addition to technical fundamentals, strategic and legal framework conditions at European and national level will also be classified. The aim is to support SMEs in the realistic evaluation of innovation paths and scaling options.

2. energy storage technologies
As the share of renewable energies increases, so does the need for storage solutions to stabilize and flexibilize the energy system. The project provides basic cross-technology knowledge on the development, production and maturity of various storage options. The aim is to enable companies to make a well-founded assessment of storage technologies and contribute to the further development of an efficient European storage landscape.

3. energy system-related energy efficiency technologies
The third cluster focuses on the systemic understanding of efficiency. It looks at the interplay between generation, conversion, storage and consumption across sectors. Topics include intelligent operating strategies, digital tools and new evaluation methods for complex energy systems. The aim is to tap into efficiency potential at system level and take a holistic approach to innovation.

Practice-oriented knowledge transfer for SMEs

EnerTECH+ focuses on structured workshops, networking formats and the practical processing of scientific findings. The transfer of university knowledge to industrial applications is intended to help SMEs to better evaluate technological options, identify new development paths and position themselves strategically in the European energy market.

Kick-off event in Hof

The official project launch will take place on May 21, 2026 with a kick-off event at Hof University of Applied Sciences. From 10 am to 2 pm, the three thematic clusters, the planned workshops and the events of the first project year will be presented. This will be followed by time for discussion and networking.

EnerTECH+ aims to contribute to strengthening a resource-efficient, resilient and climate-neutral energy system in Europe - through targeted knowledge transfer and close cooperation between science and industry.

Further information can be found on the website of the Institute for Hydrogen and Energy Technology at Hof University of Applied Sciences (iwe)