Exciting news for researchers and innovators in Europe and Africa: the Long-Term Joint EU–AU Research and Innovation Partnership on Sustainable Energy (LEAP-SE) has officially launched its Joint Call 2026.
This initiative offers a major funding opportunity for collaborative projects that push the boundaries of sustainable energy, climate action, and green transition goals across both continents.
With backing from the European Commission under Horizon Europe, LEAP-SE is putting up to €1.5 million per project on the table, supporting everything from fundamental research to applied solutions and experimental development.
What the LEAP-SE Joint Call 2026 Is About
The 2026 call builds on earlier LEAP-RE programs and is all about strengthening long-term EU–Africa partnerships in sustainable energy.
It covers the entire innovation spectrum: from laboratory research and technology development to real-world market applications.
Rooted in the AU–EU Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Partnership, the program follows seven multi-annual roadmaps that outline shared priorities like renewable energy, resilient energy systems, and inclusive transitions to greener economies.
The Purpose Behind the Program
At its core, LEAP-SE wants to create durable collaborations that tackle real energy challenges.
It encourages interdisciplinary approaches in areas such as renewable energy technologies, smart energy systems, green hydrogen production, productive-use technologies, and societal engagement in energy transitions.
The idea is to deliver top-tier scientific research while producing solutions that make a tangible difference in both Europe and Africa.
Priority Areas for Projects
Applicants need to align their projects with at least one of the LEAP-SE multi-annual roadmaps. Key focus areas include:
-
Assessing renewable energy sources
-
Managing end-of-life and second-life energy technologies
-
Developing smart stand-alone energy systems and off-grid smart grids
-
Creating innovative appliances and processes for productive uses
Suggested Readings (News continues below) -
Exploring domestic energy solutions
-
Advancing the production and use of green hydrogen
Why This Matters
Sustainable energy is more than just research—it’s a pathway to cross-continental cooperation, climate mitigation, and socio-economic development.
LEAP-SE 2026 is designed to accelerate low-carbon transitions, expand renewable energy access in underserved regions, and strengthen the journey from research to market-ready solutions.
By fostering interdisciplinary and international partnerships, the program contributes to resilient infrastructure, inclusive energy access, and a greener future for Europe and Africa alike.
Funding and Project Duration
Eligible projects can last 12 to 36 months, with funding capped at €1.5 million per project and up to €500,000 per partner.
The total indicative budget combines €13 million from national and regional funding agencies with €3.5 million from the European Commission.
Rules around cost eligibility, reporting, and compliance are determined by each partner’s national or regional funding body.
Who Can Apply
The program is open to a wide range of organisations across the renewable energy and sustainability ecosystem.
Universities, public and private research institutes, SMEs, large companies, NGOs, and public authorities are all welcome to submit proposals.
Consortium Requirements
Each proposal must come from a consortium of at least four partners, including:
-
Two from different EU Member States or Horizon Europe–associated countries
-
Two from African Union member states
Additional partners can join through self-funding or LEAP-SE partner support.
Interdisciplinary teams and gender-balanced research groups are strongly encouraged.
Applicants must follow the eligibility rules of their respective funding agencies.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should first confirm eligibility with their national funding bodies, then develop a proposal aligned with at least one LEAP-SE roadmap.
Proposals should detail objectives, methodology, innovation relevance, societal impact, and gender considerations.
Submissions are made via the official LEAP-SE application portal, where proposals will undergo scientific, technical, and strategic evaluation before final funding decisions are announced.
Application Portal: https://www.leap-re.eu/leap-se-call
What’s Next
As the Joint Call 2026 opens, researchers and innovators across Europe and Africa now have the opportunity to turn sustainable energy ideas into impactful collaborations.
With funding, guidance, and a network of cross-continental partners, the next wave of clean energy solutions is ready to take shape.
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn