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Horizon Europe
1 phase
Strategic Analysis
This call targets the critical need for advanced Condition & Health Monitoring (C&HM) in Wide Band Gap (WBG) Power Electronics (PE) to enhance the reliability and efficiency of renewable energy systems. A winning proposal must integrate cutting-edge technical developments in C&HM and WBG/UWBG PE with a strong focus on real-world demonstration and a clear business case for reduced maintenance costs and extended component lifetime.
TRL 5 → 6
Estimation of junction temperature Tj based on TSEPs (thermo-sensitive electrical parameters). Here especially big challenge present SiC MOSFETS and Schottky diodes because the TSEPs sensitivity is lower, non-linear and depends on the built technology. Further issues are calibration, circuit drift, influence of PWM and other.
Development of new and evaluation/further development of already existing unconventional techniques to measure temperature and estimate degradation (such as for example, but not limited to, Kelvin connection or acoustic based methods).
Development and evaluation of new or already existing techniques for generating the lifetime models based on big-data analysis and by utilisation of soft computing techniques.
Combination of (big) data-driven and physics-of-failure driven approaches in C&HM.
Successful business case realisation requires co-operation and communication between different partners:
Manufacturers of power electronics components (for example to integrate sometimes-necessary sensors).
System designer (to provide access to the data such as measured load cycles and general mission profiles).
Companies responsible for operation and maintenance of the systems. Currently those companies are especially for offshore wind parks developing their own C&HM systems, which are operating, based on sometimes-scarce available data.
Optimisation is possible when already initial products would be designed to obtain data/measurements needed in C&HM. For power electronics modules, the most valuable data seems to be Tj (junction temperature):
Careful estimation of the costs of maintenance for specified applications (it seems they are currently underestimated).
Investigation of different costs models (e.g., the final costs for C&HM can be absorbed by the producers especially when it is also responsible for maintenance, or it can be transferred to the final user whenever the final user can provide safer and more reliable service).
Improved WBG and UWBG power devices with better performance metrics, e.g., lower conduction losses, higher blocking voltage, better surge current capability, higher switching frequencies and better short-circuit capability.
Advanced control circuits for WBG and UWBG based bridges.
Improved packages featuring high-voltage insulation, high temperature operation, robustness, and low eddy currents.
New submodule topologies for HVDC converters and/or new converter topologies for MVDC converters with WBG and UWBG semiconductors and better performance metrics, e.g., reduced losses, higher reliability, lower volume / weight, less costs.
Implementing WBG and UWBG semiconductor devices for DC protection devices, e.g., DC breakers.
Improved cost efficiency of components based on WBG semiconductors.
Demonstration, test and validation of the activities developed in (1) (A, B and C) in at least two pilots (all activities A, B and C developed for each pilot) in different EU Member States/Associated Countries.
Capability to anticipate failures of Power Electronics (PE) in wind farms and converters of the DC grid to prevent downtime.
Techniques to set the equipment in limp mode to enable to withstand the stress until next maintenance.
Demonstration of Condition and Health Monitoring (C&HM) for converters of wind turbines generators and HVDC converter stations or MVDC converters (solar energy).
Development of new semiconductor power device technologies, in particular Wide Bandgap (WBG) and ultra-wide Bandgap (UWBG) semiconductors
Availability of more efficient Power Electronics components for the development of new generation of inverters, converters and other power equipment in the energy sector.
Reduced space occupancy aiming mainly at offshore applications.
Improved cost efficiency of power devices and semiconductor fabrication processes.
Availability of disruptive sustainable renewable energy and renewable fuel technologies & systems accelerating the replacement of fossil-based energy technologies to achieve climate neutrality in the energy sector by 2050, considering future climate conditions, and without harming biodiversity, environment and natural resources.
Reduced cost and improved efficiency of sustainable renewable energy and renewable fuel technologies and their value chains.
Support de-risking of sustainable renewable energy and fuel technologies with a view to their commercial exploitation to contribute to the 2030 “Fit for 55” targets increasing the share of renewable electricity, heat and fuels in the EU energy consumption (in particular, 40% renewable energy overall, 2.2% advanced biofuels and 2.6% renewable fuels of non-biological origin).
Better integration of sustainable renewable energy and renewable fuel-based solutions in all economic sectors, including through digital technologies.
Enhanced security and autonomy of energy supply in the EU, while accelerating the green transition.
Affordable, secure and sustainable energy solutions to diversify gas supplies in the EU by increasing the level of biomethane.
Reinforced European scientific basis and European export potential for renewable energy technologies through international collaborations (e.g., the AU-EU Climate Change and Sustainable Energy partnership, the missions and innovation communities of Mission Innovation 2.0).
Enhanced sustainability of renewable energy and renewable fuels value chains, taking fully into account circular economy, social, economic and environmental aspects in line with the European Green Deal priorities.
More effective market uptake of sustainable renewable energy and fuel technologies to support their commercialisation and provide inputs to policy making.
Increased knowledge on the environmental impacts of the different renewable energy technologies along their lifecycle and value chains.
Strategic Energy Technology Plan (SET Plan)
highREPowerEU communication
highThe REPowerEU communication is the EU's plan to rapidly reduce dependence on Russian fossil fuels and accelerate the green transition. It focuses on saving energy, producing clean energy, and diversifying energy supplies. It aims to boost energy efficiency, renewables deployment, and infrastructure upgrades across the Union.
Proposals should demonstrate how they contribute to the REPowerEU objectives, particularly by enhancing energy efficiency, enabling greater integration of renewables, or reducing overall energy consumption in the energy sector. This includes contributing to the rapid development and deployment of innovative energy technologies.
European Green Deal
highThe European Green Deal is the EU's overarching growth strategy to make Europe climate-neutral by 2050. It encompasses a wide range of policy initiatives across various sectors, including energy, industry, transport, and agriculture, aiming for a just and inclusive transition. It sets ambitious targets for emissions reduction, renewable energy, and energy efficiency.
Proposals must clearly articulate how they contribute to the overarching goals of the European Green Deal, such as achieving climate neutrality, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting sustainable industrial practices, or fostering the deployment of clean energy technologies. Demonstrating a positive environmental impact and alignment with the 'do no significant harm' principle is crucial.
Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes
highThe Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes provide overarching rules and conditions applicable to all calls for proposals under Horizon Europe. They cover essential aspects such as eligibility criteria, types of action, funding rates, ethical requirements, intellectual property rights, dissemination and exploitation, and specific provisions for lump sums or blended finance.
Proposals must demonstrate full compliance with all relevant provisions outlined in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes. Evaluators will assess adherence to eligibility criteria, ethical considerations, dissemination plans, data management, and financial rules. Failure to comply with these general conditions can lead to disqualification or lower scores.
HE Framework Programme and Rules for Participation Regulation 2021/695
highRegulation (EU) 2021/695 establishes the legal framework for Horizon Europe, defining its objectives, structure, budget, and the general rules for participation and dissemination. It sets out the overarching principles governing the entire programme, including eligibility, funding conditions, and ethical considerations, ensuring a coherent and effective implementation of EU research and innovation policy.
Proposals must fully comply with the fundamental legal requirements and principles set out in this Regulation. Evaluators will ensure that the proposal adheres to the general rules for participation, ethical standards, and the overall objectives of the Horizon Europe programme as defined by this foundational legal act, as non-compliance can lead to ineligibility.
HE Specific Programme Decision 2021/764
highCouncil Decision (EU) 2021/764 establishes the Specific Programme implementing Horizon Europe, detailing the specific objectives, budget breakdown, and broad lines of activities for each pillar and cluster, including the 'Digital, Industry and Space' cluster. It provides more granular guidance on the types of research and innovation activities to be supported within the broader Horizon Europe framework.
Proposals should clearly align with the specific objectives and expected impacts outlined in the Specific Programme Decision for the relevant cluster (e.g., Cluster 4 'Digital, Industry and Space'). Evaluators will look for how the project contributes to the detailed work programme priorities and expected outcomes, demonstrating a clear understanding of the strategic direction for space research and innovation within Horizon Europe.
EU Financial Regulation
highGoverns the financial management of EU funds, including Horizon Europe. It sets out rules for budgeting, reporting, and auditing to ensure transparency and accountability.
Evaluators will assess the financial viability of the proposal, including realistic budgeting, cost eligibility, and compliance with financial reporting requirements. Proposals must demonstrate sound financial planning.
Horizon Europe Programme Guide
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1. Admissibility conditions: described in Annex A and Annex E of the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes
Proposal page limits and layout: described in Part B of the Application Form available in the Submission System
2. Eligible countries: described in Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes
A number of non-EU/non-Associated Countries that are not automatically eligible for funding have made specific provisions for making funding available for their participants in Horizon Europe projects. See the information in the Horizon Europe Programme Guide.
If projects use satellite-based earth observation, positioning, navigation and/or related timing data and services, beneficiaries must make use of Copernicus and/or Galileo/EGNOS (other data and services may additionally be used).
3. Other eligibility conditions: described in Annex B of the Work Programme General Annexes
4. Financial and operational capacity and exclusion: described in Annex C of the Work Programme General Annexes
Award criteria, scoring and thresholds are described in Annex D of the Work Programme General Annexes
Submission and evaluation processes are described in Annex F of the Work Programme General Annexes and the Online Manual
Indicative timeline for evaluation and grant agreement: described in Annex F of the Work Programme General Annexes
6. Legal and financial set-up of the grants: described in Annex G of the Work Programme General Annexes
7. Specific conditions: described in the [specific topic of the Work Programme]
Call documents:
Standard application form — call-specific application form is available in the Submission System
Standard application form (HE RIA, IA)
Standard evaluation form — will be used with the necessary adaptations
Standard evaluation form (HE RIA, IA)
MGA
Call-specific instructions
Guidance: "Lump sums - what do I need to know?"
HE Main Work Programme 2023–2024 – 1. General Introduction
HE Main Work Programme 2023–2024 – 8. Climate, Energy and Mobility
HE Main Work Programme 2023–2024 – 13. General Annexes
HE Framework Programme and Rules for Participation Regulation 2021/695
HE Specific Programme Decision 2021/764
Rules for Legal Entity Validation, LEAR Appointment and Financial Capacity Assessment
EU Grants AGA — Annotated Model Grant Agreement
Funding & Tenders Portal Online Manual
Evaluators will prioritize proposals that demonstrate a strong, interdisciplinary consortium capable of addressing the complex technical challenges of C&HM for WBG PE (e.g., @SC1, @SC2, @SC3, @SC4). A clear methodology for developing and validating new techniques and lifetime models, combined with a robust plan for pilot demonstrations in diverse EU Member States/Associated Countries (@SC18, @EO3), will be crucial. Furthermore, the proposal must articulate a compelling business case, showing how the developed solutions will lead to reduced costs, improved efficiency, and enhanced reliability for the energy sector, directly contributing to EU climate and energy security goals (@EI1, @EI2, @EI5). The integration of manufacturers, system designers, and O&M companies (@SC5, @SC6, @SC7, @SC8) is essential for a credible impact pathway.
4 key insights you must internalise before writing. Each is grounded in the call text and tells you what evaluators will actually look for. Share these with your consortium before drafting.
The scope explicitly mandates the demonstration and validation of your C&HM solution in at least two pilots located in different EU Member States or Associated Countries. A proposal that fails to structure its validation around this dual, geographically diverse demonstration plan will be considered out of scope. This requirement directly impacts consortium building, as you must secure partners capable of hosting and operating these distinct pilot sites.
Source: Scope / activities
The call text and evaluation criteria explicitly state that a successful project requires the integration of power electronics component manufacturers, system designers, and companies responsible for operation and maintenance (O&M). The evaluation criteria reinforce this, calling this integration 'essential for a credible impact pathway'. A proposal lacking representation from any of these three key stakeholder groups will be seen as having a weak implementation and impact strategy, severely damaging its score.
Source: Evaluation criteria (pre-award)
The scope is explicitly divided into two mandatory parts: R&I on C&HM methodologies and a practical demonstration. Proposals must present a balanced work plan that gives equal strategic importance to both the fundamental research and the validation in two pilot sites. An imbalance, where the demonstration is treated as a minor validation task rather than a core project pillar, will fail to meet the call's central requirement.
Source: Scope
Beyond technical innovation, the call demands a 'successful business case realisation' and a 'careful estimation of the costs of maintenance' as core activities. This is not merely a point for the impact section; it must be an integrated activity within your work plan. Your proposal should detail the methodology for developing cost models and demonstrate how the value-chain partners will contribute to and validate this business case.
Source: Scope / activities
The AI has drafted potential core elements based on the call analysis. To start building your project proposal structure, select the elements that resonate with your consortium's concept. You can refine and rewrite them fully once your project workspace is created.
Current power electronics (PE) systems, especially in critical energy infrastructure like wind farms and DC grids, suffer from unpredictable failures leading to significant downtime and high repair costs due to a lack of accurate condition and health monitoring.
Existing Condition & Health Monitoring (C&HM) techniques are often insufficient for Wide Band Gap (WBG) and Ultra-Wide Band Gap (UWBG) power electronics, particularly for accurate junction temperature estimation and degradation assessment, hindering their full potential and reliability.
The absence of robust, data-driven and physics-of-failure integrated lifetime models, combined with an underestimation of maintenance costs, prevents optimal design, operation, and cost-efficiency of WBG PE-based energy systems.
Companies involved in the design, production, and supply of power electronics components, especially Wide Band Gap (WBG) and Ultra-Wide Band Gap (UWBG) semiconductors.
Engineers and companies responsible for designing and integrating power electronics into larger energy systems, such as wind farms and DC grids.
Organizations responsible for the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of energy infrastructure, including offshore wind parks and HVDC/MVDC converter stations.
Academics, researchers, and technical experts engaged in the advancement of power electronics, condition monitoring, and renewable energy technologies.
To develop and validate novel and enhanced Condition & Health Monitoring (C&HM) techniques, including advanced junction temperature estimation and unconventional degradation measurement methods, specifically tailored for Wide Band Gap (WBG) and Ultra-Wide Band Gap (UWBG) power electronics.
To create sophisticated lifetime models utilizing big-data analysis and soft computing, integrating both data-driven and physics-of-failure approaches for comprehensive Condition & Health Monitoring (C&HM) of power electronics.
To research and develop new generations of Wide Band Gap (WBG) and Ultra-Wide Band Gap (UWBG) semiconductor power devices, improved control circuits, advanced packaging, and novel converter topologies, enhancing performance metrics and cost-efficiency for energy sector applications.
To demonstrate, test, and validate the developed C&HM techniques, lifetime models, and WBG/UWBG technologies in at least two distinct pilot applications within the energy sector (e.g., wind farms, DC grid converters), coupled with a thorough business case analysis for maintenance cost optimization and market uptake.
The project will significantly improve the reliability of power electronics in renewable energy systems, such as wind farms and DC grids, by enabling proactive failure anticipation and mitigation, thereby reducing operational downtime and associated economic losses. This contributes to a more stable and efficient renewable energy supply.
By developing more efficient WBG/UWBG power devices and optimizing C&HM, the project will lead to reduced operational losses and lower maintenance costs over the lifetime of energy conversion systems, making renewable energy technologies more competitive and affordable.
The demonstration and validation of advanced C&HM and WBG PE technologies in real-world pilots will de-risk these innovations, fostering their commercial exploitation and contributing to the EU's "Fit for 55" targets by increasing the share of renewable energy and strengthening European technological leadership.
The project's research and development activities in advanced C&HM, lifetime modeling, and WBG/UWBG semiconductor technologies will reinforce the European scientific basis and enhance the export potential for renewable energy technologies, fostering innovation and competitiveness.
By extending the lifetime of power electronics components through effective C&HM and enabling predictive maintenance, the project contributes to a more circular economy in the energy sector, reducing waste and the consumption of new resources.