The energy transition requires rapid upscaling of technologies such as wind turbines, electrolysers, solar panels and batteries. This transition is currently dependent on the availability of so-called “critical raw materials”, such as cobalt, neodymium or lithium, which are needed to utilise these technologies. Due to the current increase in interest in these technologies, demand for critical raw materials is also expected to rise sharply. Critical raw materials often come from a limited number of sources in countries that are geopolitically vulnerable or otherwise cannot be a reliable source of the material.

Aim of the call

The aim of the programme is to reduce dependence on scarce and geopolitically risky raw materials for the energy transition. This can be achieved by promoting and developing insights, effective interventions, measures, circular strategies, practical perspectives and innovation through an integrated approach. By redesigning (parts of) the value chain, the success of the energy transition will become less dependent on critical raw materials and the polluting effects of using critical raw materials will be reduced. It will also contribute to the strategic autonomy of the EU and, therefore, the Netherlands.

Lines of research

This call for proposals requests proposals that focus on reducing the use of critical raw materials in the following areas of application of the energy transition: 

• Electrolysis devices and electrolysis plants
• Wind turbines
• Photovoltaic energy
• Battery systemsOther areas relevant to the energy transition, such as network infrastructure such as cables and transformers, power electronics, or the production of alternative fuels, etc. 

Applicants are asked to focus primarily on one area of application. Sufficient funding is available for at least one project in each of the five areas of application.

Matchmaking

A matchmaking meeting will be organised on 29 January 2026 for this call. During the matchmaking meeting, NWO will facilitate contacts between potential consortium members.

Budget and lead time

The total subsidy ceiling for this programme is €7,000,000. A minimum of €750,000 and a maximum of €1,300,000 in NWO funding can be requested for an application. Co-funding is mandatory. The deadline for submitting applications is Tuesday 14 April 2026, before 14:00 PM.