WENex: Driving Innovation at the Water-Energy Nexus
Water and energy are deeply interconnected—water is crucial for energy production, while energy is essential for water supply and treatment. However, infrastructure investments often overlook the complex interdependencies between these sectors, known as the water-energy nexus.
With its new research initiative "Water-Energy-Nexus" (WENex), the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) is addressing this challenge. The program aims to foster synergies between the water and energy sectors through technological innovations, new concepts, and business models.
Funding Priorities
WENex supports projects that develop practical, scalable solutions, including:
✔ Water conservation in energy production
✔ Energy-efficient water supply and wastewater treatment
✔ Use of alternative water resources (e.g., water reuse, closed water cycles) in the energy sector
✔ Storage of surplus renewable energy within the water sector
Who Can Apply?
Project proposals can be submitted by German organizations, with the option to include international partners if they contribute significant added value to the project. The developed solutions must be tested at a pilot site during the project period.
Application & Deadline
📅 Submission Deadline: September 30, 2025
📍 Responsible Agency: Project Management Agency Karlsruhe (PTKA)
📄 More Information: The official call text (available in German) and application details can be found on the PTKA website. https://www.ptka.kit.edu/wasser-energie-nexus-2752.html