This joint paper by the European Innovation Council and Future Cleantech Architects underscores the critical role of innovation in driving Europe’s transition to a low-carbon future. The science-based collaboration between Future Cleantech Architects and the European Innovation Council at the Future Cleantech Festival in May 2024 focused on two pivotal areas: energy storage and sustainable construction, both essential for achie ving net-zero emissions.
The development of mid and long duration energy storage and thermal energy storage technologies is key to balancing intermittent renewable energy supply with demand, enhancing grid stability, and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The advancements in these storage solutions, supported by the EIC’s Pathfinder Challenge, aim to increase energy density, improve charge/discharge durability, and utilize non-critical raw materials.
In the construction sector, significant innovations are needed to reduce the carbon footprint of cement and concrete, which are major contributors to global CO2 emissions. The exploration of alternative materials, carbon capture technologies, and digi tal design methods are critical for decarbonizing the built environment. The integration of these technologies will facilitate more sustainable construction practices and contribute to the broader goals of the European Green Deal.
As we move forward, it is essential to accelerate the deploy ment of these innovations through continued investment, regulatory support, and industry collaboration. By fostering a comprehensive ecosystem of clean technological advance ments, Europe can lead the way in achieving a resilient, sus tainable energy system and a low-carbon construction sector.
