Photovoltaics: Second EAG funding call in Austria begins on June 16

Photovoltaics: Second EAG funding call in Austria begins on June 16

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Following a strong start to the funding year in April, the second EAG funding call for investment grants for photovoltaic systems and energy storage systems will open on June 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. A total of 12 million euros is available for this purpose. The lottery will begin at 5:00 p.m. Funding applications may be submitted from June 16 through June 30, 2026.

 

“The high demand shows that people want to be part of the energy transition. What matters now is that we develop photovoltaics in such a way that it not only generates a lot of electricity, but also makes this electricity available at the right time, in the right place, and at an affordable cost. That is exactly what the new funding approach is all about: We are not slowing down the expansion; we are making it smarter,” says Elisabeth Zehetner, State Secretary for Energy at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs, Energy, and Tourism.

 

High demand: First funding call increased by 30 million euros

The first EAG funding call for 2026 highlighted the strong momentum in the expansion of photovoltaic systems and energy storage: nearly 29,000 applications were submitted. Originally, 40 million euros had been earmarked for PV and storage subsidies in this call. In fact, funding requests totaled approximately 135 million euros. To better meet this high demand, an additional 30 million euros was released from remaining funds. As a result, the first funding call was increased from the original 40 million euros to a total of 70 million euros.

 

Storage is becoming the key to the energy transition

A structural trend is particularly evident in the first funding call: approximately 90 percent of the applications already included a storage component. From the perspective of the energy system, this is a crucial step. After all, a modern energy system must not be designed solely to generate as much electricity as possible. It must also be designed to better integrate generation, consumption, storage, and the grid.

“The first call for proposals clearly shows the direction in which things are heading. The energy transition is not just about rooftops, but also about basements, the grid, and the market. When there is a lot of solar power available at midday, it must be stored and then made available when households, businesses, and industry need it. Renewable energy generation must evolve into an energy system that works in practice,” said Zehetner.

 

Second Funding Call: 12 Million Euros for Solar Power and Energy Storage

In the second funding round, storage systems will continue to be funded in combination with photovoltaic systems. For smaller PV systems, fixed subsidy amounts per kWp apply: For systems up to 10 kWp, the subsidy is 150 euros per kWp; for systems between 10 and 20 kWp, it is 140 euros per kWp. For systems over 20 kWp, the subsidy is awarded through a bidding process. This ensures that projects with the lowest subsidy requirements are prioritized.

 

The “Made in Europe” bonus enhances safety and adds value

The “Made in Europe” bonus will also continue. Photovoltaic systems and energy storage units built using technical components with European value added may receive an additional subsidy on top of the standard grant. Already, 46 percent of all PV applications include European inverters.

 

Info: The next PV funding calls for 2026

The second call for proposals will run from June 16 to June 30, 2026. A total of 12 million euros is available for this call: 2 million euros each for categories A and B, and 4 million euros each for categories C and D.

The third call for proposals will take place from October 8 to 22, 2026. A total of 8 million euros has been allocated for this purpose, with 2 million euros set aside for each of categories A through D.

Further information on subsidy rates, eligibility criteria, and submission deadlines can be found in the EAG Investment Subsidy Regulation for Electricity and on the EAG Subsidy Administration Office’s subsidy information portal at eag-abwicklungsstelle.at.

It's time to make Grandma's nut liqueur

It's time to make Grandma's nut liqueur

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For anyone who wants to make their own batch of our grandmothers’ health-promoting nut liqueur, now is the time to get started, because St. John’s Day (June 24) is the last chance to use the nuts for this purpose.

 

To my grandmother, it was pure medicine—though I suspect she must have liked the taste, too, because after every heavy meal she would make her way to the mirrored mahogany bar and treat herself to a sip of the dark brown liquid. She always had to have it on hand—if she was running low, she had to make sure to restock.

So in my world, it’s part of the basic essentials of any halfway decent household, right alongside band-aids, toothpicks, and *The Godfather* trilogy. It doesn’t just provide enjoyment; it evokes a sense of home and well-being. It’s an elixir.

But in order for him to reach his full potential, there is one thing he needs in abundance: time.

So let’s get right to work. Tie on your apron (this time it’s really important—the stains are tough), put on your rubber gloves, and let’s get started.

First, you’ll need to find a walnut tree—thankfully, I have one in my garden. Given the current climate changes, St. John’s Day might not be the best time to harvest the nuts—they may have already developed too much shell and thus be unusable. We therefore recommend that you harvest the nuts by mid-June and soak them; this takes three days—but then you’ll need to buy some.

 

What we need

For 15 nuts:

  • 1.5 liters of grain
  • 1 lemon
  • The zest and juice of 1 orange
  • 1–2 cinnamon sticks
  • 8 cloves

 

After about 6 weeks:

  • about 5 small scoops of sugar syrup (to taste)
  • about 50 ml of ethanol

 

Here's how to do it:

❤ Prick the nuts several times with a knitting needle, then place them in a glass of cold water

❤ Change the water every day for three days

❤ On the fourth day, slice the nuts

❤ Add to a large jar along with the remaining ingredients

❤ Let it sit in a bright, warm place for at least six weeks

❤ Sift the nuts through a cloth

❤ Make a sugar syrup using sugar and water (heat enough sugar in water until it no longer dissolves)

❤ Season to taste with sugar syrup and alcohol—it always turns into a wild party at our place.

❤ If you can, bottle it now—but you can also do it the next day.

 

Have fun!

Green hydrogen: Less than one percent is produced without emissions

Green hydrogen: Less than one percent is produced without emissions

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The current energy crisis highlights the consequences of dependence on fossil fuels. Green hydrogen is a key component of decarbonization. According to the Global Energy Report 2025, approximately 100 million tons of hydrogen were produced worldwide in 2024—about 99 percent of which came from fossil fuels. Thisresulted in the emission of approximately 980 million tonsof CO2 . Not even one percent was produced emission-free. Although there is significant demand, development is being slowed by economic, regulatory, and infrastructural barriers. China is a key driver in the deployment of electrolysers. The topic will take center stage at the Hydrogen Summit 2026, held as part of the ees Europe trade fair (June 23–25, Messe München).

 

Background

The industrial transition toward climate neutrality is one of the key challenges facing leading economic regions in the coming decades: While the European Union, for example, aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2050, China is targeting 2060. In both regions, hydrogen is considered a key strategic component for the transformation of industry and the energy sector. However, actual market development is lagging behind these ambitious targets: According to the Global Energy Report 2025, only about 11 percent of the hydrogen projects announced since the start of the decade are currently operational or backed by investment decisions.

 

Made almost entirely from fossil fuels

Although global demand for hydrogen is steadily rising, this energy source is currently still produced almost exclusively from fossil fuels such as natural gas and coal. It is traditionally used for ammonia production, oil refining, and methanol synthesis. CO2-neutral hydrogen has so far played a minor role in the overall market. Yet emission-free hydrogen is considered an indispensable component of the energy transition—especially for the decarbonization of sectors that are difficult to electrify, such as the steel industry. Although there is significant demand, development is being slowed by economic, regulatory, and infrastructural barriers.

In addition to the slow expansion of new pipeline networks and delays in repurposing existing natural gas infrastructure, the cost structure remains a key bottleneck: According to analyses by the International Energy Agency (IEA), green hydrogen is currently still two to three times more expensive to produce than its fossil fuel counterpart. However, the sustainable alternative becomes competitive above all when unpredictable or persistently high natural gas prices make conventional production more expensive.

“A sustainable energy system is no longer based solely on generating clean electricity. We must also store this electricity intelligently and make it usable across different sectors. Only by flexibly integrating decentralized generation, modern battery storage, and hydrogen electrolysis can we secure the future of industry. Green hydrogen is a key lever in making Germany’s and Europe’s energy supply resilient, ensuring technological independence, and keeping electricity prices predictable in the long term.”

Markus Elsässer, founder and managing director of Solar Promotion GmbH

 

China as a driving force

Electrolysis allows hydrogen to be produced in a climate-neutral way by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable electricity. However, the IEA expects significant growth in the coming years. By 2030, global production of green hydrogen is projected to rise to 4.2 million tons. Compared to 2024, this would represent a fivefold increase. China is the driving force behind the expansion of electrolysis capacity. The IEA anticipates that zero-emission hydrogen will become competitive in China by the end of the decade—due to low technology and capital costs. It also sees good prospects for this in Europe, as natural gas is becoming increasingly expensive due tocarbon pricing. In contrast, there is little potential in regions where natural gas is cheaper, such as the United States and the Middle East.

 

Applications of zero-emission hydrogen

The industry urgently needs green hydrogen for steel production, for high-temperature processes exceeding 1,000 degrees Celsius, and as a feedstock for synthetic fuels in heavy-duty, maritime, and air transport. In addition, green hydrogen could replace natural gas in district heating networks. So far, however, there is a shortage of electrolysers. Although the European Union aims to achieve a domestic electrolyser capacity of 40 gigawatts by 2030 and countries such as Germany, Spain, and France have set ambitious national targets, practice is lagging behind theory.

Progress has been slow because, in addition to infrastructure, there is also a lack of demand. Potential investors are therefore hesitant. To stimulate demand, the production of synthetic fuels could be a solution.

 

Hydrogen Dialogue Summit 2026

Against this backdrop, ees Europe—Europe’s largest and most international trade fair for batteries and energy storage systems—is placing a special focus on hydrogen. From June 23 to 25, the newly redesigned “Hydrogen Dialogue Forum & Expo” exhibition area in Hall B2 will provide in-depth insights into the potential applications of hydrogen, technological innovations, cost-saving opportunities, and groundbreaking projects.

“The role of hydrogen as an energy source of the future is still not widely recognized. With the Hydrogen Dialogue, we are sending a clear signal in support of its expansion and covering the entire value chain,” explains Jens Mohrmann, Managing Director of Freiburg Wirtschaft Touristik und Messe GmbH & Co. KG (FWTM).

The economy needs sustainable solutions. This is where the Hydrogen Dialogue Summit comes in; it will take place on June 24 and 25 at the International Congress Center (ICM).

The latest trends and challenges in the hydrogen industry are examined:

  • On June 24, the spotlight will be on Germany. Key questions include how electrolysis can help alleviate grid bottlenecks and make better use of renewable energy, and how the chemical, cement, and steel industries can leverage decarbonization as a competitive advantage.
  • On June 25, attention will turn to Europe and the world, as well as to growing competition from Asia. Over the course of two days, leading figures from politics and academia will discuss the strategic importance of hydrogen for a resilient and climate-friendly energy supply of the future with decision-makers from industry and associations in Germany and Europe.

 

Europe's largest trade fair alliance for the energy industry

 

 

 

Europe's largest trade fair alliance for the energy industry

Europe's largest trade fair alliance for the energy industry

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The smarter E Europe brings together the four trade fairs Intersolar Europe, ees Europe, Power2Drive Europe, and EM-Power Europe. It will take place from June 23 to 25 at the Munich Trade Fair Center. Approximately 2,800 exhibitors and over 100,000 visitors from around the world are expected to attend.

 

The war in Iran and the current energy crisis show that we must phase out fossil fuels much more quickly and that the energy transition needs to accelerate. Renewable energy sources reduce our dependence on geopolitical tensions and crises. They ensure a secure energy supply and combine reliability, cost-effectiveness, and climate protection. This transformation is unstoppable, and innovation is more important today than ever before.

 

The smarter E AWARD 2026

The numerous entries for the 2026 The smarter E AWARD demonstrate just how progressive and forward-looking the industry is. A panel of experts selected the best and most innovative new developments to be nominated for the award.

The prestigious award is presented in five categories:

  • Photovoltaics,
  • Energy Storage,
  • E-mobility,
  • Smart Integrated Energy and
  • Outstanding Projects.

On June 22, the day before The smarter E Europe opens, the winners will be honored starting at 5:00 p.m. at the International Congress Center Messe München (ICM). Anyone interested is welcome to attend the awards ceremony free of charge.

 

ees Europe

As Europe’s largest trade fair for batteries and energy storage systems, ees Europe brings together global market leaders. Exhibitors showcase market-ready innovations that reduce electricity costs and stabilize grids—from artificial intelligence in storage management to sodium-ion technologies. As part of the trade fair alliance The smarter E Europe, the trade fair connects around 2,800 exhibitors and more than 100,000 decision-makers to integrate grid storage economically into the infrastructure of the future.

The European battery market is scaling up at a record pace. As growing solar and wind capacity places increasing demands on European grids, storage systems will need to shift electricity over many hours in the future. Consequently, the average storage duration is increasing from 1.9 to 3.5 hours—a technological leap that underscores the trend toward system-relevant grid storage. The ees Europe trade show, taking place June 23–25 in Munich, will demonstrate how the industry is meeting this enormous demand.

 

ees Europe Conference

The ees Europe Conference, taking place on June 22 and 23 in Munich, will showcase how European industry is addressing the enormous need for transformation from both a technological and strategic perspective. The focus will be on transnational issues such as the large-scale financing of stand-alone large-scale storage facilities, the successful planning of pan-European hybrid power plants, and the regulatory handling of grid tariffs in the transformed European energy system. At the trade fair, the ees Forum (Hall C2) will serve as a platform for discussion on European law through a variety of discussion formats.

 

ees Innovation Hub Stage

At the same time, the ees Innovation Hub Stage (Hall B0) serves as the innovative heart of the event: Here, leading European researchers and industry representatives will present state-of-the-art projects—ranging from the use of AI in battery research and best practices in the circular economy to strategies for establishing a resilient, self-sufficient battery production sector in Europe. Another highlight is the presentation of the prestigious The smarter E AWARD in the Energy Storage category on June 22.

 

Intersolar Europe 2026

As the world’s leading trade fair for the solar industry, it showcases the latest technologies and business models for the commercial and industrial (C&I) sector as part of The smarter E Europe, Europe’s largest trade fair alliance for the energy industry. When the international solar industry gathers in Munich for Intersolar Europe 2026 in June, India will be a particular focus this year. The country is already one of the world’s most important photovoltaic markets and is increasingly developing into a production hub for PV components. This opens up new opportunities for German and European companies—ranging from technology partnerships and mechanical engineering to research and more resilient supply chains.

 

Intersolar Europe focuses on market-ready technologies and new business models for the commercial and industrial sectors. The event kicks off with the Intersolar Europe Conference, which begins one day before the trade show opens. In dedicated sessions, experts analyze the economic conditions and technical requirements for large-scale PV projects.

In conjunction with the trade show, the Intersolar Forum (Hall A3) will offer practical insights into the synergies between PV, energy storage, and fleet management on June 23. On June 25, the German Solar Energy Society (DGS) will provide an in-depth look at specific C&I applications.

In addition, the special exhibition “Renewables 24/7” (Hall C5) demonstrates how the smart integration of generation, storage, and load management optimizes self-consumption in commercial and industrial settings. Here, visitors can see how integrated systems ensure supply security and tap into new revenue streams through sector coupling.

 

Power2Drive

At Power2Drive Europe, the international trade fair for charging infrastructure and electric mobility, visitors can learn about sustainable mobility and smart charging at the Munich Trade Fair Center from June 23 to 25. Highlights include “The Bidirectional Zone” and a new study on “Bidirectional Commercial Fleets.” It will be presented by Power2Drive Europe and the Research Center for Energy Economics (FfE). The trade fair addresses current market developments and demonstrates how the interplay between e-mobility and renewable energy supply works.

The “The Bidirectional Zone” in Hall C6 showcases the rapid advancements in bidirectional charging. Visitors can learn about the benefits this technology offers them.

The “Fleet Information Days” will take place for the first time on June 23 and 24. With a specialized program of presentations and networking events, this new format is specifically designed for fleet management professionals who wish to establish or expand an efficient electric vehicle fleet and the corresponding charging infrastructure. The German Federal Association for New Mobility is offering a guided tour. Participants in the eMobile Academy workshop “Electrifying Commercial Vehicle Fleets: When Does It Pay Off?” can earn a certificate and have their participation counted toward continuing education credits.

 

EM-Power Europe

At EM-Power Europe, the international trade fair for energy management and connected energy solutions, numerous exhibitors will be showcasing their AI-based solutions and digital innovations at the Munich Trade Fair Center from June 23 to 25. Here, visitors can engage with representatives from companies, startups, and other industry pioneers. For the first time, there will also be a joint booth titled “AI for Smart Energy.”

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the energy system: As the expansion of wind and solar power continues across Europe, AI will ensure the efficient use of every kilowatt-hour generated in the future. Intelligent algorithms synchronize generation and consumption in real time, thereby stabilizing the grids and avoiding costly curtailments. This makes software a crucial tool for an economical, reliable, and renewable energy supply.

Trade show visitors will have the opportunity to learn about energy and load management, flexibility trading, advanced metering infrastructure, energy-as-a-service, and much more. The accompanying EM-Power Europe Conference on June 23 will focus on flexibility in industry and commerce.

 

The smarter E Forum

The smarter E Forum will provide further insights through its presentations. On June 24, the smartEn association will present successful real-world examples during the session “Demand-Side Flexibility in Action: Best Practices from the Flexible Demand Management Industry.”

The day before, the German Association for New Energy (bne) reported on the planned changes to the EEG 2027, which are intended to provide compensation for the flexibility of batteries and charging infrastructure in the lower power range.

Flexibility will also be a key focus at the EM-Power Europe Conference on June 22 and 23, 2026, featuring sessions such as “Electric Vehicle Grid Integration – Scaling up Flexibility” and “Turning Industrial and Commercial Demand-Side Flexibility into Value.”