Commercial Applications of Space-Enabled Robotics: Energy and Utilities
ESA invites proposals that combine the use of satellite technologies and robotics for downstream services for energy and utilities.
Opportunity Details
When
Registration Opens
23/05/2024
Registration Closes
23/07/2024
Award
ESA will bear up to 50% (non-SME businesses) or 80% (for SMEs) of the eligible cost pending support from the National Delegation, and the remainder must be financed by the tenderer and/or other partners.
Organisation
ESA
This call is part of the umbrella of “Commercial Applications of Space-Enabled Robotics” thematic call for proposals.
This Call for Proposals invites proposals for Feasibility Studies and Demonstration Projects for services that combine the use of satellite technologies and robotics for downstream services for energy and utilities.
‘Robotics’ is here defined to include physical robots, autonomous drones, machines and vehicles, and precursory solutions or those that enable these (e.g. perception and navigation systems for autonomous systems, connectivity solutions to enable tele-operated robotics…).
Within the energy and utilities sector, applications of space-enabled robotics are foreseen in relation to supporting energy and utilities infrastructure deployment, operations, inspection, maintenance, and/or decommissioning. Infrastructure in question could be waste and water utility infrastructure, electricity grids, oil and gas platforms, on- or offshore wind farms, telecommunications networks, pipelines, nuclear power plants, solar farms or otherwise.
We look for promising business ideas addressing topics of relevance or related areas that propose:
- attractive market opportunities, identified customer needs and customer engagement
- commercially-viable service concepts
- technically feasible solutions
- added value of space data or technology
- motivated teams with business, technical, and financial expertise
We offer funding and support to companies, both for business case assessment and for the development of new, space-based services. Our offer includes:
- zero-equity funding (50-80% depending on SME Status and Member State Approval)
- technical and commercial guidance
- access to our network and partners
- ESA brand credibility
The initiative is open to the submission of proposals for Feasibility Studies and Demonstration Projects:
- Feasibility Studies – which provide the preparatory framework to identify, analyse and define new potentially sustainable services (total cost must be under €500,000)
- Demonstration Projects – dedicated to the implementation and demonstration of pre-operational services (case by case assessment for maximum cost)
This opportunity is open to companies that intend to develop space-enabled services and products from 22 ESA member states, including the UK. If you would like help to find a project partner, contact Innovate UK Business Connect’s Space team.