New offshore research pathway and expanded fellowships signal broader push to accelerate clean energy transition.
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has unveiled a coach for 2026, aimed at advancing energy research and innovation across Ireland’s academic, public and private sectors.
The funding will be delivered through the SEAI’s National Energy Research, Development and Demonstration (RD&D) Programme alongside its Energise Fellowship Programme, both of which opened for applications on 21 May 2026.
“I encourage researchers and organisations to apply and play a key role in shaping a more sustainable energy system”
The latest call is designed to support projects that contribute to Ireland’s transition to a clean, secure and affordable energy system, with a focus on scalable solutions aligned to national climate and energy priorities.
Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy Darragh O’Brien said the funding reflects continued state support for innovation in the energy sector.
“This €20 million investment highlights the Government’s strong commitment to driving innovation that will accelerate Ireland’s transition to a clean, secure and affordable energy future,” he said.
“I encourage researchers and organisations to apply and play a key role in shaping a more sustainable energy system.”
Broader scope and new offshore pathway
The 2026 programme introduces a revised thematic structure designed to focus on priority research areas, as well as a new Offshore Renewable Energy RDD+ pathway.
This new funding stream is intended for projects that require access to specialised test facilities outside Ireland and offers grants of up to €2 million per project. The initiative aims to strengthen Ireland’s capabilities in offshore wind and related technologies, a sector expected to play a central role in future energy supply.
The RD&D call is open to multidisciplinary research teams and encourages collaboration between universities, industry and public bodies. This year’s programme is also supported by co-funding partnerships with Met Éireann and Geological Survey Ireland, expanding the scientific and technical expertise underpinning funded projects.
Applications for the RD&D programme must be submitted by 13:00 on Tuesday, 30 June 2026.
Fellowship programme expands eligibility
Alongside the research funding call, SEAI has opened applications for its Energise Fellowship Programme, which supports policy-relevant research and aims to strengthen links between academia and energy policy development.
For 2026, eligibility criteria have been expanded to include more senior researchers, including established academic staff. The change is intended to deepen the programme’s impact and broaden participation across the research community.
Fellowships are available in both academic institutions and within SEAI itself, with the latter offering direct exposure to policy development and implementation.
Deadlines differ by stream, with SEAI-based fellowship applications closing at 13:00 on Thursday, 11 June 2026, and academic fellowship submissions due by 13:00 on Tuesday, 30 June 2026.
Track record and sector impact
SEAI has been funding energy research since 2002, supporting more than 300 projects with total investment exceeding €120 million. Funded initiatives have covered a wide range of areas, including renewable energy, energy systems, transport, efficiency, policy, behavioural change and community engagement.
Chief executive William Walsh said the latest funding call is aimed at supporting researchers addressing complex energy challenges.
“Innovation is so important to meet the scale of the challenge we are facing to reduce Ireland’s dependency on fossil fuel,” he said.
“This €20 million fund supports those at the cutting-edge of energy research, looking at ways to make Ireland a healthier, more affordable, more secure place to live and work.”
The 2026 programme also places emphasis on diversity and inclusion in research teams, with additional supports available for applicants who may require flexibility, including funding for accessibility needs and accompanied travel for those with caring responsibilities.
SEAI said fostering diverse research teams is a priority, citing the link between inclusivity, innovation and stronger project outcomes.
Key dates and next steps
Open information webinars are scheduled to support applicants, with a session for fellowship calls taking place on 21 May at 10:00 and an RD&D funding webinar set for 25 May at the same time.
Full details on eligibility, themes and application processes are available on the SEAI research funding webpage.
With a mix of established programmes and new funding mechanisms, the 2026 call is positioned to drive the next phase of Ireland’s energy research pipeline as the country advances its long-term climate objectives.
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