Free Electrons is the world’s largest open innovation program designed to bring disruptive energy solutions to market.

Selected startups will work alongside leading energy utilities to deliver innovative solutions that advance the energy transition. Participants will gather globally, engaging in both in-person and virtual modules, designed to fast-track their progress.

The program provides an accelerated path for startups to develop and scale their businesses, pilot solutions and access potential investment opportunities.

timeline

A step-by-step journey from application to global impact.
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October 17th 2025 - January 31st 2026

Applications Open

Worldwide

From October 17th 2025, to January 31st 2026, applications are open to startups ready to scale their solutions and explore opportunities for pilots, investment, and shared learning alongside leading utility partners - CLP, EDP, E.ON, ESB, Hydro Québec, and Origin Energy.

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W/C April 13th 2026

Pitch Event

Virtual

Selected startups present their technologies and teams during a fast-paced Pitch Event, showcasing how their solutions address utility pain points and challenges. Startups advancing to the next phase will be announced at the end of March, 2026.

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W/C June 22nd 2026

Bootcamp

Lisbon, Portugal

Bootcamp marks the first in-person module of the Free Electrons journey.
It’s where startups and utilities meet face to face to explore collaboration opportunities and align solutions with utilities’ challenges. Together, they define pilot concepts, outline roadmaps, and move forward from ideation to clear project scope through focused 1-on-1 meetings.  The closing of the Bootcamp will see successful startups go on to participate in the remaining modules.

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W/C September 14th 2026

Master Module

London, UK

The Master Module brings startups and utilities together for focused collaboration, building on connections made during the Bootcamp. Participants will deepen their engagement by co-designing pilot projects - defining scope, objectives, success criteria, resources, and requirements - to shape a clear and actionable roadmap for collaboration.

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W/C November 16th 2026

Grand Finale

Montreal, Canada

Grand Finale focuses on consolidating partnerships and shaping projects ready for scaling and long-term growth.
While it marks the close of the program, collaboration continues beyond this stage. Participants also join an Open Day attended by the Free Electrons consortium, venture capital investors, invited guests, and members of the local ecosystem.

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Categories

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

Free Electrons aims to address specific key challenges in the energy sector.

Next Generation Renewables

Energy Management/Data

Asset Optimisation

Thermal Solutions

Grid Planning, Optimisation and Stability

Energy Storage

Connected & Engaged Customers (B2B and B2C)

Mobility & Transport Electrification

Other

View all categories in detail

PITCH DECK

Click here to find Free Electrons’ overview pitch deck.

TESTIMONIALS

hear from the participants