The mid-term review of the EU’s Multi-Annual Financial Framework at the end of 2016 has resulted in an additional €400 million for the Horizon 2020 programme and the Smart Cities & Communities (SCC) initiative in the coming three years. This is a positive development that can enable to further support the locally driven energy transition.
For Energy Cities, the Horizon 2020 and SCC work-programmes in 2018-2020 should rely on the following cornerstones to make the most effective use of these additional funds:
- Introduce new Horizon 2020 thematic priorities: “Territorial Governance”, “Transition Management” & “Linking Climate Mitigation & Adaptation"
- Increase funding support for local and regional authorities to develop innovative, collaborative financing schemes by strengthening and extending the axis “Innovative Financing for Energy Efficiency Investments”
- Expand axes on engaging consumers & public authorities through new innovative calls on ”Transition storytelling” and “local Energy Unions”
- Introduce blockchain in cities, smart urban solar and smart urban energy storage as calls in ICT for Energy Efficiency and the Low-Carbon Economy Priorities
- Simplify the H2020 application approach & provide more dedicated support for applicants
- Smart Cities & Communities: stronger focus on collaboration within the city administration and between the Smart City Projects
- Support creation of ‘Smart City Agencies’ in Europe’s cities
For more information, read our full briefing on the Horizon 2020 and SCC 2018-2020 work-programmes here.
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