
The European Commission has launched a new call for proposals under the Single Market Programme (SMP COSME), focusing on the creation of renewable energy communities (RECs) for agri-food and retail SMEs. This initiative aims to enhance sustainability, reduce energy costs, and mitigate emissions for SMEs in these critical sectors. The application deadline is 20 February 2025.
Objective and Scope
The call seeks to support the establishment of local or regional RECs by integrating agri-food and retail SMEs into sustainable energy systems. The aim is to:
- Increase the use of renewable energy sources.
- Stabilise and reduce energy costs for SMEs.
- Foster collaboration between SMEs and local authorities.
- Contribute to the EU’s climate and sustainability goals.
Funded projects must:
- Organise calls for expressions of interest for third-party support.
- Provide technical and advisory services to help SMEs establish RECs.
- Develop business and legal strategies for REC formation and operation.
- Promote collaboration with local stakeholders, such as municipalities and cooperatives.
Funding Details
The total budget for this call is €2.9 million, with a maximum funding limit of €1 million per project. The EU will cover up to 75% of eligible costs, while the remaining 25% must be co-financed by applicants. Each funded project is expected to support 10–15 RECs, leveraging local renewable energy solutions such as biogas, solar PV, wind turbines, and energy storage.
Eligibility
Eligible applicants must be legal entities based in EU Member States or associated countries. Proposals must be submitted by consortia of at least three partners from three different eligible countries. The consortium coordinator must be a service provider, business support organisation, or local/regional authority with expertise in renewable energy.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal by 20 February 2025. Required documents include:
- Application forms (Parts A and B).
- Detailed project budget.
- CVs of the core project team.
Evaluation and Awards
Proposals will be evaluated on relevance, quality, and impact, with successful projects invited for grant preparation in June 2025. Projects are expected to start in September 2025 and last for up to 24 months.
This is an exciting opportunity for SMEs to become leaders in sustainability while reducing operational costs and contributing to a greener future.
Source: EUROPEAN INNOVATION COUNCIL AND SMEs EXECUTIVE AGENCY (EISMEA)
Details
- Publication date
- 28 January 2025
- Author
- European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency