EDP and six other leading energy companies operating globally are looking for startups that can contribute to a more sustainable and innovative planet. Registration is now open for the 6th edition of Free Electrons, the largest global innovation programme in the electricity sector. Registrations can be made until April 18 at https://freeelectrons.org/.

In this edition, startups with solutions or products that can have an impact on the energy transition, in areas such as renewable energy, smart grids, energy management, sustainable mobility, energy storage, flexibility, green hydrogen or decarbonization can apply. Technological priorities involve artificial intelligence, advanced software, internet of things, blockchain, automation robotics, cybersecurity, AR/VR and 3D/4D printing.

For EDP, open and collaborative innovation with various agents in the sector is a priority to be able to develop the technologies and solutions that the sector needs to provide an urgent response to the energy transition. Candidates who are chosen for the 2022 edition will have access to the various business units of the EDP group, which is present in 28 markets, and may have access to specialized teams with whom they can test their solutions. This is also an opportunity to refine their business strategy.

The results of previous editions prove the success of Free Electrons and its impact on EDP's business. In five years, the company has already invested more than 37 million euros in pilot projects, investments and businesses.

In this year's edition, the working modules between the chosen startups and the utilities will return to a face-to-face format, starting in June. After three phases of acceleration of ideas, the final of this edition will be organized by EDP in October in São Paulo, one of the capitals where the company has most developed its open innovation strategy. This is the first time that Free Electrons has a module in this country.

Along with EDP, American Electric Power (USA), CLP (Hong Kong, China), E. ON (Germany), ESB - Electricity Supply Board (Ireland) and Origin Energy (Australia) are part of the global consortium. Management support is provided by the innovation consultancy Beta-i.