Water-Energy-Nexus (WENex)– Call for research proposals
WENex is an initiative of the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF)
Call Introduction
The German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) is funding projects on the water-energy nexus with a new call for proposals. The aim is to to significantly improve water and energy efficiency and strengthen the synergies between the two sectors. International partners are also encouraged to get involved.
The aim is to develop new technologies, concepts and business models for the resource-efficient combination of water management and energy production. The solutions developed must have a strong practical relevance. This research initiative focuses on applied research, not on basic research. A Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 5 to 7 will be targeted.
The BMBF is inviting internationally renowned experts in research, development and innovation in the water or energy sector from all GCC countries to get involved and matchmake with German experts to join project consortia.
The BMBF can only provide a small proportion of the funding for international participation. For this reason, the resources required for the realisation of own work objectives in the consortia must be provided through own funds or funds from third parties.
R&D Call topics
-
Developing innovative solutions to reduce the energy demand for water supply and wastewater treatment by using the heat potential of water or chemically bound energy. In the best case, the water sector will be transformed from an energy consumer to an energy producer ("energy factory").
-
Developing methods to store surplus energy from volatile energy sources (e.g. solar energy, wind power) in the water sector.
New concepts should enable the water sector to be integrated into future smart energy networks. -
Developing new technologies and business models to reduce the amount of water needed to generate/store energy.
-
New concepts for the use of alternative water resources (e.g. water reuse, closed water cycles) in the energy sector.
Project consortia should address a number of different themes and address the water and energy sectors respectively. The aim is to achieve synergies for the sustainable transformation of the water and energy sectors.
In addition to the technological topics, all project proposals should address economic aspects regarding the cost-effectiveness of the solutions developed.
How to register for the matchmaking?
1. Register
Sign-up on this platform and publish a short Organisation profile
2. Publish you Project
Publish your Project idea and define what kind of collaboration you are offering or looking for. Projects are only visible to registered Platform members
3. Find R&D Partners
Browse the Platform for interesting Partners and Projects and explore options for a joint collaboration via chat and 1:1 Video Calls
4. Funding decision
The deadline for the submission of proposals in Germany is September 30, 2025. Following an external evaluation process, the BMBF will decide on the funding of the submitted proposals.