Support for research and innovation in energy sector
The Technology Agency of the Czech Republic is preparing the fourth call under the THETA 2 programme, which focuses on supporting applied research and innovation in the energy sector. The aim is to support projects that will help bring modern, low-carbon and sustainable solutions to the Czech energy sector, while strengthening the ability of both the state and businesses to respond more effectively to current challenges.
Large enterprises will also be eligible to participate in the call, which is planned to be announced on 26 August 2026. Project proposals may be submitted from 27 August to 21 October 2026. The call is divided into three sub-programmes reflecting both short-term practical needs and long-term technological directions.
Sub-programme 1 – Research in the public interest
This sub-programme is intended for projects that deal with the energy sector primarily from the perspective of society and public administration. Emphasis is placed on key trends such as emission reduction, the development of decentralised energy systems and the use of digital technologies. Supported projects should provide a basis and tools for more informed energy management at the level of the state, regions or municipalities, while also taking into account the links between the energy sector and other sectors.
Sub-programme 2 – Energy technologies for competitiveness
This sub-programme targets projects whose results can be put into practice relatively quickly. Support will be available for technologies and solutions that may contribute to meeting the Czech Republic’s climate and environmental objectives in the near future. The aim is to strengthen areas where domestic research and industry are well positioned in the European or global context, or where the Czech Republic has a specific competitive advantage.
Sub-programme 3 – Technology to ensure the long-term sustainability of the energy industry
This sub-programme supports projects at lower technology readiness levels. These are areas where immediate practical application is not expected, but which are essential for the future shape of the energy system.
Under sub-programme 1, the support for a single project may amount to up to CZK 15 million; for the other sub-programmes, the amount will be specified later. The maximum aid intensity may reach up to 90 percent of eligible costs, while for large enterprises the maximum aid intensity generally ranges between 25 and 65 percent of eligible costs. Operating costs may be supported.
The duration of projects differs by sub-programme:
- in sub-programmes 1 and 2, projects may last from one to four years;
- in sub-programme 3, a longer project implementation period is expected – at least three years and no more than just under five years.
Projects under sub-programmes 1 and 2 are planned to be completed by mid-2031, projects under sub-programme 3 by the end of 2031. Project outputs must comprise, for example, an industrial design or utility model, prototype, functional sample, software or verified technology. Projects may be implemented throughout the Czech Republic, including Prague.
We will keep you informed about further details of the call.