Data sharing to support the training and development of AI foundation models in the energy sector

Overview

Funding for projects developing AI foundation models in the energy sector through secure, scalable data-sharing methods. Targets consortia of energy utilities, grid operators, startups, SMEs, and research institutions to advance grid observability, forecasting, flexibility, and efficiency.

Who Can Apply

Consortia of legal entities (e.g., energy utilities, grid operators, startups, SMEs, hyperscalers, research institutions, asset owners) from eligible countries. Single applicants are not permitted.

Funding Details

Maximum grant amount: €40,000,000. Funding rate and co-funding requirements follow Horizon Europe rules (typically 70% for for-profit entities, 100% for non-profits).

What Is Funded

• Development and training of AI foundation models for energy sector applications (e.g., grid planning, forecasting, congestion management, predictive maintenance, flexibility, EV charging).
• Innovative data-sharing strategies (e.g., federated learning, synthetic data, "AI gyms") ensuring privacy, security, and interoperability.
• Testing and validation of models in lab demonstrators and real-life pilots, including use of AI Testing and Experimentation Facilities (TEFs).
• Collaboration frameworks for data exchange among stakeholders (data owners, developers, deployers).
• Open-source development practices and FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, Reusable) principles for AI models.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Projects must target Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 7–9.

Key Dates

• Open date: 2026-08-03
• Deadline: 2026-11-30T23:00:00Z

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal. Proposals must adhere to page limits and templates outlined in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.

Post-Award Obligations

• Contribution to the BRIDGE initiative and participation in its activities.
• Compliance with ethical, safety, and security principles in AI model development.
• Open-source practices where feasible.
• Reporting and dissemination requirements as per Horizon Europe grant agreements.

Geographic Scope & Language

Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, Switzerland. Application language: English.

Notes

• Projects must demonstrate access to large, relevant datasets at the time of proposal submission.
• Use of Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS data is mandatory if satellite-based services are employed.
• The granting authority may object to exclusive licensing or transfer of ownership of results for up to 4 years post-project.