EDP launches 10th edition of Energy Starter – applications now open for Future Grids projects
Applications are open until 23 August for the Future Grids track, part of EDP’s global innovation programme designed to accelerate the adoption of technologies that drive the energy transition. Since its launch in 2016, the programme has fostered collaboration between EDP and startups and scaleups from around the world. Considering all innovation projects developed by EDP with startups since 2016, including the Energy Starter programme and other open innovation initiatives, the company has launched more than 200 pilot projects, delivered 45 commercial rollouts and made 30 venture capital investments, which together represent around €140 million in business opportunities.
The programme is structured around three thematic modules – Future Grids, Renewable Energy and Client Solutions – aligned with strategic priorities for both the energy sector and EDP. The first module, now open for applications, is dedicated to Future Grids and aims to identify innovative solutions capable of increasing the capacity and flexibility of electricity networks, improving the monitoring and control of operations, accelerating infrastructure development and strengthening grid resilience in the face of extreme events.
Startups and scaleups interested in participating in the Future Grids module can apply through the Energy Starter website.
Following an initial evaluation phase and an online pitch session, selected startups and scaleups will take part in a bootcamp at EDP’s headquarters in Lisbon, aimed at accelerating the development of pilot projects and business opportunities. The selected projects will be fully funded by EDP and will gain access to the company’s assets, data and expert teams to support implementation and potential commercial deployment.
Operating across four strategic regions – Europe, North America, South America and Asia-Pacific – EDP is a global leader in renewable energy. Innovation is a core pillar of the company’s strategy to accelerate the energy transition and promote the adoption of new technologies across the energy sector.