Spain plans 65 million euros to cut campus energy use

65 million euros could help universities and research centres across Spain cut the energy used in their buildings and labs. In Madrid on 4 November, the government opened its proposed grant rules and first funding call to public comment. The money is not yet available.

The proposed INNOVAE UNIVERSIDAD programme would draw on Spain’s National Energy Efficiency Fund. It aims to back innovative projects that save energy on university and research campuses. The Ministry for Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge has put both the draft rules and the first call out for comment.

Who could receive a grant

Public universities, research bodies with their own legal status and other eligible public organisations in Spain’s science system could apply. Energy service companies could also enter. The Institute for Energy Diversification and Saving would award non-repayable grants to the highest-rated projects through a competitive process.

The money could go towards more efficient buildings and equipment, outdoor lighting, or measures that reduce energy needs in laboratories and research areas. Smart systems that manage energy supply and use are also covered.

The targets projects must meet

Major energy renovations of existing buildings would have to cut primary energy use by at least 60% and final energy use by at least 20%. Renewable energy produced on site or nearby would have to cover all the renovated buildings’ annual energy use. Projects in areas facing demographic challenges or a shift away from polluting industries would also receive consideration in the scoring.

Each project would need at least one million euros in eligible costs. Grants could reach three million euros, and recipients would have up to 24 months to complete the work after being notified of approval.

Topics: Environment

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com