HEDGE-IoT open call: Unlocking innovation in energy data services

HEDGE-IoT is launching open call 1 for startups and SMEs to develop and validate IoT-enabled, data-driven energy services within the project’s advanced framework.

The digital transformation of the energy sector is well underway, yet challenges remain in integrating real-time data, optimising grid operations and enabling more flexible and efficient energy management.

The HEDGE-IoT project, funded under the Horizon Europe programme, is at the forefront of tackling these challenges by developing an intelligent, interoperable energy data ecosystem.

Now, startups and SMEs are invited to join this mission through the HEDGE-IoT open call 1.

The challenge: Unlocking the potential of energy data

Energy systems are becoming increasingly complex due to the rapid growth of distributed energy resources (DERs), electrification of transport, and demand side flexibility.

However, one major bottleneck persists: effectively utilising data to enhance grid operations and energy services. While large-scale utilities and operators generate vast amounts of data, securely sharing, processing and extracting actionable insights remains a challenge.

This is where HEDGE-IoT comes in. By leveraging edge computing, federated learning and AI-driven analytics, the project creates a decentralised, privacy-preserving infrastructure to support innovative energy services.

Through the open call 1, the aim is to expand the ecosystem by integrating third party solutions that bring added value to energy flexibility, grid optimisation and prosumer engagement.

HEDGE-IoT’s solution: An open innovation approach

The HEDGE-IoT open call 1 is designed to support startups and SMEs in developing new applications and services that enhance energy efficiency, demand response and market participation.

Selected third parties will receive:
• Financial support, with the offer of funding of up to €60,000 per third party to accelerate development and real-world deployment.
• Access to cutting-edge infrastructure with testing and validating solutions in HEDGE-IoT’s real-world pilot environments.
• Expert guidance through collaboration with leading research institutions, DSOs and technology providers.

Solutions are sought that align with the project's core focus areas:
• Real-time grid optimisation: AI-driven algorithms for balancing supply and demand.
• Secure and interoperable energy data services: Enhancing data-sharing frameworks across stakeholders.
• Decentralised flexibility markets: Enabling peer-to-peer trading and grid-supporting mechanisms.

Successful applicants will test their solutions within HEDGE-IoT’s demonstrators, which include large-scale pilot sites across Europe, ensuring real-world applicability and impact.

The impact: Driving innovation in energy services

The HEDGE-IoT open call 1 is designed to bridge the gap between research and market adoption.

By integrating third-party solutions into the HEDGE-IoT ecosystem, the aims are to improve grid resilience by enhancing real-time decision-making for system operators; accelerate decentralised energy markets by empowering prosumers and energy communities; and strengthen data-driven innovation with creation of scalable services that support the evolving energy landscape.

This is a rare opportunity for startups and SMEs to collaborate with leading energy players and gain exposure in a Horizon Europe-funded ecosystem driving the next generation of energy intelligence.

Applications for open call 1 will be opening soon. Follow hedgeiot.eu for more information.