EDP has just launched the second module of the collaborative innovation programme Energy Starter 2022, created to introduce startups and fast-growing technology companies (scaleups) to EDP specialists from around the world. This programme, which already had a first module in May focused on the Energy Networks of the Future, held in Oviedo, aims to accelerate the development of innovative solutions that contribute to the energy transition.

The second phase of this edition is open to projects with innovative solutions that can be applied to different renewable energies, technologies in which EDP is a global leader, with approximately 20 GW installed and with the objective of doubling this capacity by 2025. Startups can also present solutions that contribute to the development of green hydrogen, a fast-growing technology that EDP has already adopted through the development of projects in its main geographical areas. In this area, EDP's objective is to invest in projects that will secure an additional 1.5 GW of capacity by 2030.

Through a three-phase approach, the seventh edition of the Energy Starter programme focuses on three key areas in the energy transition landscape. The first module was dedicated to Future Energy Networks and aimed to boost energy distribution network infrastructure through innovative solutions. In 2023, the third and final module of this edition will be launched, which will focus on Customer Solutions that can help them in their decarbonisation process.

Applications for this second phase can be submitted until 30 September on the programme's website. After the evaluation process, the selected companies will participate in a bootcamp in Houston (United States) where, together with EDP and EDP Renováveis specialists, they will be able to develop their ideas and work on pilot projects. In addition, during this phase they will have access to a large group of mentors and specialists who will help them to develop their activity. At the end of this edition of Energy Starter, the startups will have the opportunity to test their solution in the energy sector, in collaboration with EDP, in the different geographical areas where the group is present.

Throughout the six previous editions, more than 150 startups have participated in the Energy Starter programme and more than 80 deals (pilot projects, rollouts and investments) have been carried out. In the last edition, the programme received more than 700 applications.

Developing and finding innovative solutions for the energy sector is a pillar of the EDP group, which intends to invest one billion euros in innovation by 2025. EDP has teams dedicated to Startup Engagement and Ventures in some of its main markets; it is also committed to the development of Open Innovation and its innovation ecosystem includes the work of dozens of startups and academic partners, among others.