Iberdrola and ANCES join forces in the search for start-ups to drive photovoltaic tech

Iberdrola, through its start-up programme, Perseo, has launched a challenge to develop innovative technological solutions to drive the photovoltaic sector. The electricity company, which has around 8,000 MW of installed capacity worldwide using this technology, is proposing this challenge within the framework of Ances Open Innovation, the open innovation programme of ANCES, the Spanish National Association of European Business and Innovation Centres. 

The company chaired by Ignacio Galán – Europe's leading electricity company in terms of stock market value and one of the three largest in the world – is looking for start-ups and entrepreneurs in the field of photovoltaic power who offer solutions to reduce costs, increase durability or facilitate the integration of photovoltaic systems in different environments. The aim is to find innovative solutions in this field, both hardware and software.

Some of Iberdrola's areas of interest in this challenge are the integration of solar panels in buildings, solutions that improve integration with nature – in agricultural environments or that promote biodiversity around the facilities – or that optimise the construction, operation, maintenance and recycling of photovoltaic systems. 

Participants have until 7 March to submit their proposals through the Ances Open Innovation website. The finalists will be announced on 23 April and will have the opportunity to defend their projects at the Ances Open Innovation Final Event to be held in May in Madrid.

The winning solutions will have the opportunity to collaborate with Iberdrola to carry out a pilot and potentially scale their technology globally.  

The driver of energy start-ups

Since its creation in 2008, Perseo has invested more than €200 M in start-ups that develop innovative technologies and business models, focusing on those that improve the sustainability of the energy sector through greater electrification and the economy’s decarbonisation. The programme has focused its actions on analysing business opportunities and technological collaboration with start-ups and emerging companies around the world.