BACKGROUND
This Call for Proposals invites proposals for feasibility studies for services that explore innovative uses of space technology to advance green hydrogen as a sustainable energy source. This study aims to leverage satellite communication (SatCom), satellite Earth observation (SatEO), and satellite navigation (SatNav) to support green hydrogen production, storage, and distribution. The focus is on evaluating practical applications of green hydrogen across multiple sectors, including:
- Energy
- Transportation
- Maritime
- Smart cities
By integrating space-based solutions, we seek to address technical challenges, enhance infrastructure, and foster a resilient hydrogen economy that contributes to net-zero carbon goals by 2050.
Proposals are encouraged to assess the feasibility of satellite-based solutions in supporting hydrogen technology, emphasising environmental sustainability, operational efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. The study should involve collaboration with user communities in relevant sectors, aiming to develop a proof of concept (PoC) and outline potential pathways for further application development.
VALUE OF SPACE
Space technology offers significant advantages in supporting the development of a green hydrogen infrastructure:
- Satellite communication (SatCom): Provides crucial low-latency connectivity, particularly in remote locations where conventional infrastructure may be limited. This enables real-time monitoring, control, and management of hydrogen production and storage facilities. SatCom also supports the expansion of hydrogen refuelling networks by streamlining operations and ensuring reliable data transfer across hydrogen-powered vehicles and refuelling stations.
- Satellite Earth observation (SatEO): EO data helps identify optimal production sites by analysing environmental factors such as proximity to renewable energy sources and industrial sites. Additionally, SatEO can monitor emissions and evaluate the environmental impact of hydrogen initiatives over time, ensuring compliance with sustainability goals. The continuous monitoring of marine ecosystems, offshore wind resources, and land use adds significant value to the responsible expansion of hydrogen infrastructure.
- Satellite Navigation (Satnav) / Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS): GNSS supports the safe transportation and distribution of hydrogen by enabling real-time tracking and route optimisation, reducing carbon footprints and transportation costs. SatNav is critical for managing logistics and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, especially in urban areas where adherence to environmental regulations is essential.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
We look for promising business ideas which address topics of relevance or related areas that include:
- attractive market opportunities, identified customer needs and customer engagement
- commercially viable service concepts
- technically feasible solutions
- added value of space data or technology
- motivated teams with business, technical, and financial expertise
WHAT WE OFFER
We offer funding and support to companies, both for business case assessment and for the development of new, space-based services. Our offer includes:
- zero-equity funding*
- technical and commercial guidance
- access to our network and partners
- ESA brand credibility
*ESA will co-fund 80% of the acceptable cost, up to €200K, per awarded study.
WHO CAN APPLY
This opportunity is open to companies that intend to develop space-enabled services and products related, but not restricted, to the topics of relevance outlined above. To be eligible for funding, your team must be based in one of the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom. Teams can involve non-European entities, but their contribution to the activity cannot be funded by ESA. Authorisation of Funding letters from the corresponding National Delegations are required as part of the application.
HOW TO APPLY
- Register your team on esa-star Registration today. If your team is made up of more than one organisation, each entity will need to register.
- Download the official tender documents from esa-star when the opportunity opens. This includes a letter of invitation, proposal template, draft contract, and additional information about this opportunity.
- Prepare your proposal using the official tender documents and reach out to your National Delegation to obtain a Letter of Authorisation.
- Submit your proposal via esa-star Tendering by the deadline.
WEBINAR
A webinar will be planned, prior to the launch of the call. More details will follow up soon.