Current SOUR call for proposals: Net-Zero Supply Security

The second SOUR call for proposals has been launched, with the guiding theme being “Supply Security on the Path to a Net-Zero Energy System”. The focus is on how Switzerland can ensure a secure and affordable energy supply at all times during the transition to a climate-neutral energy system.

As with the first SOUR call in 2021, the focus is on “game-changing” projects. However, the current call for proposals is now following the model of the US Department of Energy’s established ARPA programme. The call is designed for high-risk projects and solutions with transformative potential that can be commercialised quickly and thus make a concrete contribution to achieving the objectives of the Energy Strategy 2050.

As external call director, Prof. em. Marco Mazzotti (previously ETH Zurich) leads the current call for proposals, supported by experts of the SFOE. The call director evaluates the projects, provides close support and monitors their progress. If milestones are not met, he may terminate projects and reallocate any funds that become available.

The projects and solutions must meet the following criteria:

  • The projects must be high-risk and aim to deliver solutions with significant transformative potential.
  • The projects must make concrete contributions to at least one of six indicators from the monitoring of the Energy Strategy 2050.
  • They must be based on technologies that have already been experimentally demonstrated (Technology Readiness Level TRL 2-3).
  • They must develop a functional prototype at their ends (Technology Readiness Level TRL 6).
  • The project must include a plan for commercialising the solution via a start-up or a partnership with an existing company.

Proposals may be submitted until 1 December 2026 at 12:00 noon CEST. Researchers from academic institutions, non-commercial research organisations and the private sector are eligible for funding. A total call budget of 4 million Swiss francs is available. Each project may apply for up to 1.33 million Swiss francs over a maximum period of three years. The start of the projects is planned for April 2027.

The “Call Guideline” and “Proposal Template” are available for download from 1 September at 17:00 CEST under “Documents”.