Analysing and promoting energy storage solutions, developing tools to mitigate the intermittency of RES,contributing to an accelerated transition to renewable energy and more balanced electrical grids

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B Danube

Date of latest update: 2025-12-17

Description

Description (EN):

Energy storage is key to unlocking renewable power's full potential. Our groundbreaking project targets the critical challenge of energy storage within the Danube Region, specifically focusing on the environmental impacts of current storage methods and the need for more sustainable alternatives. Under the framework of the EUSDR Action Plan 2.1, our project is dedicated to assisting each country in the region in meeting its national targets by 2030, contributing to the European Union's ambitious goal of achieving 30% renewable energy usage by the same year, while adhering to the National Emission Ceilings. Strategic Direction & Envisaged Achievements: Our project's strategic direction is to expedite the transition towards a renewable energy-based economy in the Danube Region by enhancing energy storage capacities to alleviate the intermittency of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and push towards a more balanced electricity grid. This is a pressing need as increasing the share of RES in electricity production requires a more balanced supply of these energy sources. This balance is only achievable through a diversified portfolio of electricity storage options. Today, lithium-ion batteries are the most commonly used method for storing electricity, with pumped hydro storage being another option in certain cases. However, lithium-ion batteries carry substantial environmental burdens. Their production process involves mining raw materials such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which leads to habitat destruction, water pollution, and increased carbon emissions. Moreover, these batteries, when improperly disposed of, can lead to soil and water contamination. According to IEA World Energy Outlook 2022 Lithium‐ion batteries are the fastest growing storage technology in the world. Relative to current levels, demand for lithium for battery storage systems rises most sharply, by over 20‐fold by 2030 and almost 50‐fold by 2050 in the NZE (Net Zero Emissions by 2050) Scenario. However, while almost 85% of the battery manufacturing capacity needed in the NZE Scenario in 2030 is already in place or in the pipeline, the lithium supply chain faces a much bigger stretch. Announced capacity expansions and potential new projects would increase current production capacity three‐and‐a‐half‐times, but another tripling of current capacity would be required to meet the level seen in the NZE Scenario in 2030. In line with expert predictions mentioned above and in Section C.2, we expect that the supply of raw materials for these conventional batteries will struggle to meet the ever-increasing demand, which will lead to lithium scarcity and sharp price increases. These circumstances underline the urgent need for more environmentally sustainable alternatives. Our project is focused on developing and promoting these alternatives. We are committed to researching, developing, and implementing novel, sustainable technologies that promise a much smaller environmental impact than traditional batteries. Proposed Outputs and Beneficiaries: Our project will yield two significant outputs. First, we'll provide a ready-made selection of scalable and modular options for alternative electricity storage that are not only effective but also environmentally responsible. Alongside this, we'll deliver a modelling tool for planning energy storage systems equipped with these innovative, eco-friendly solutions, tailored to meet the needs and parameters of RES operators. Secondly, we will offer a Renewable Energy Sources (RES) optimisation tool that leverages the yet underutilised potential of Artificial Intelligence applications in renewable energy combined with energy storage. These initiatives will primarily benefit RES operators, enabling them to manage energy more efficiently and sustainably, contributing to a more eco-friendly, renewable energy-based economy. Transnational Approach and Novelty of the Project: Given the global nature of climate change and energy challenges, a cooperative, transnational approach is paramount. Our project stands out in its integration of AI applications within the RES domain - a pioneering approach that is not commonly seen in the current scenario. By transcending conventional energy storage methods and weaving AI into the RES sector, we aim to create a new standard for renewable energy management. We are committed to pushing the envelope of what's possible in renewable energy, offering an innovative, environmentally-friendly solution for the future of energy in the Danube Region.

Actual Achievements (EN):

The partnership of StoreMore project embarked on the implementation of the planned activities on the 1st of January 2024. Under the coordination of Bekescsaba, the eleven partners and five ASPs started their efforts aimed at achieving the objectives and results defined in the project development phase. The opening conference of the project was organized on the 6th of March, in Bekescsaba. The event was organized in hybrid mode, in order to facilitate the highest possible audience. The 45 persons who participated physically and those who were following the presentations online were greeted by the mayor of Bekescsaba and had the possibility to find out details about the project's planned activities and objectives. Moreover, the program included several presentations about promising energy storage solutions, held by renown experts in the field. The opening conference was organized back-to-back with the first study visit and the first SCOM meeting of the partnership. This approach ensured reduced costs for both organizing the event and for the travel of the participants, contributing thus also to the environmental sustainability of the project implementation. During the study visit the participants were taken to the photovoltaic plant in Bekescsaba, having the opportunity to take a closer look at the existing energy storage facilities. At the SCOM meeting the partners jointly discussed and agreed on the details of the tasks to be performed as part of project activities. As a result, the partnership increased the intensity of the implementation. Under the coordination of ICUK, the partner organizations initiated a very intensive data collection process, gathering information about the most relevant stakeholders and the relevant aspects of the renewable electricity markets from the participating countries in the Danube region. The data was collected through questionnaires, but also through interviews with selected stakeholders. The information was centralized by ICUK which is processing it and will elaborate two important deliverables - the stakeholder map and the state-of-play analysis. These documents are expected to become available by the end of second reporting period. Additionally, the partnership got engaged in a research for identifying the most promising energy storage technologies. Under the leadership of Bekescsaba, the partners selected a number of ten emerging technologies, which are investigated from several perspectives linked to sustainability - e.g. financial, environmental, etc. The result of this thorough analysis will be delivered until the end of the second reporting period. The operation of the partnership was satisfactory throughout the first six months of implementation. All partners were actively involved in the project activities, contributing to the progresses in achieving the deliverables. The communication between the LP and all the partners was constant and efficient. After the teams of experts were set-up, their work was regular and intense. The involvement of ASP was satisfactory, especially with regards to the PAC, who participated in the opening conference of the project and was following on the implementation of the project elements. During the second reporting period, the partnership made important progresses in the implementation of the project activities, getting closer to achieving the defined project objectives. The first Specific Objective is almost fully achieved, its major elements being finalized by the end of 2024. Based on the data collected and processed within the first semester of implementation, the partners finalized the elaboration of the stakeholder mapping (act 1.1) and State of play analysis (Act 1.2). Additionally, the Energy Storage Outlook was finalized by the partners, listing and analyzing a number of eleven most promising energy storage emerging technologies (Act 1.3). The partners participated in a number of three study visits, experiencing the operation of energy storage facilities under real-life conditions (Act 1.4). By the end of 2024, the partnership started the work on the Catalogue of Energy Storage solutions, which will be finalized by the end of the third semester. With this last element, the StoreMore partnership will manage to achieve its first specific objective, meant to stimulate the cooperation among participating organizations. These achievements represented a solid basis for the development of the energy storage modelling tool and RES optimization tool. The related work started already in the second semester, the two instruments being expected to become ready for testing by the end of the third reporting period. The partners started already the preparations for the testing phase, making sure that all the conditions are in place for finalizing the pilot actions by the end of the second year of implementation. Not the least, the partnership started to work on the informational film, which will present a series of promising technologies and the work deployed by the partnership when identifying them. An external service provider was contracted in this sense, which already made the preliminary steps in the production of the film. Moreover, an information platform which would host the modelling and optimization tools is under development, being expected to become functional by the end of the third semester of implementation. The partnership organized a project meeting in Fuchstal, in October 2024. This proved to be a very good opportunity to review the progresses, to analyze the challenges and to plan the future steps in implementation. The meeting was organized by PP9 AUF. All partners managed to prepare and submit their progress reports related to the first semester of implementation. In case of PP9 AUF, there were no costs paid out until the end of the reporting period, therefore the control did not verify the content of the report. The rest of the reports were verified and certified by the national first level controllers and the project level progress report was submitted by the Lead Partner on the 30th of September. After the report was checked by the Joint Secretariat, the Interreg funds were transferred to the LP, which distributed them to the partners, in line with the amounts from the partner certificates. The StoreMore project made substantial progress during its third reporting period (January – June 2025), successfully transitioning from foundational analysis to the development and demonstration of its core digital tools. The added value of the transnational cooperation was exceptionally clear, as partners combined their diverse expertise to deliver high-quality, comprehensive outputs. A major highlight was the finalization of the Comprehensive Catalogue of Sustainable Energy Storage Solutions (CSESS). This cornerstone deliverable, led by the Innovation Centre of the Ústí Region (ICUK), was a significant collaborative effort. Partners contributed in-depth analyses on a wide array of technologies, including hydrogen storage , ultracapacitors , battery energy storage systems (BESS) , vanadium redox flow batteries , and innovative flywheel and gravity-based storage systems. The catalogue provides a crucial, data-rich foundation for regional stakeholders and is a direct input for the project's digital tools. Significant advancements were also made in developing the project's two innovative digital tools. The Online Modelling Tool, co-led by the University of Zagreb (UNIZAG FSB) , has been developed into a sophisticated guide that suggests optimal storage solutions based on user data. Concurrently, partners collaborated on designing the AI-powered RES Optimisation Tool, which will help renewable energy operators predict energy production and improve efficiency. Both tools were demonstrated during a partner meeting in the Czech Republic, where comprehensive feedback was collected for further refinement. The spirit of transnational cooperation was powerfully demonstrated during the 3rd Steering Committee Meeting (SCOM) in Ústí nad Labem, hosted by ICUK in March 2025. The event successfully brought the consortium together to align on progress, make key decisions, and plan for the next project phases. The meeting was enriched by practical site visits to advanced research facilities like CTU UCEEB and pioneering energy projects , which provided invaluable hands-on learning and networking opportunities for all partners. Collectively, these achievements have created a robust analytical and technical groundwork, positioning the StoreMore project perfectly for the upcoming pilot testing of the tools and the preparation of feasibility studies in the next period.

Project outputs: Cooperation of partners resulting a State of play analysis , Stakeholders map, Energy storage outlook and Comprehensive Catalogue of Sustainable Energy Storage Solutions (CSESS)(EN)
Pilot action to test the online modelling tool involving PiPs and voluntary testers(EN)
Pilot action to test the RES optimisation tool involving PiPs and voluntary testers(EN)
Developed, tested, fine tuned modelling tool(EN)
Developed, tested, fine tuned RES optimisation tool(EN)

Thematic information

Renewable energy

Priority: (VI-B_D_2) Priority 2 - A greener, low- carbon Danube Region

Priority specific objective: RSO2.2. Promoting renewable energy in accordance with Directive (EU) 2018/2001, including the sustainability criteria set out therein

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO2 A greener, low-carbon transitioning towards a net zero carbon economy and resilient Europe by promoting clean and fair energy transition, green and blue investment, the circular economy, climate change mitigation and adaptation, risk prevention and management, and sustainable urban mobility

Type of intervention: 047 Renewable energy: wind

Partners (14)

Lead Partner: Békéscsaba Megyei Jogú Város

Partner’s ID if not PIC: HU15345008

Department: N.A.

Address: Szent István tér, 5600 Békéscsaba, Hungary

Department address: Szent István tér, 5600 Békéscsaba, Hungary

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Website: https://bekescsaba.hu/en

Total budget: EUR 383 900.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 307 120.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 76 780.00

Contractors:

Name: Szilágyi Artúr EV
VAT registration or tax identification number: 56656927-1-33
Name: eNET Magyarország Kft.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 12669789-2-43
Name: Békéscsaba Smart MagagementKft
VAT registration or tax identification number: 32249084-2-04
Name: Condico Kft.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 14580897-2-04
Name: Optimeast Europe Srl
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO36806953
Name: Dr. Lengyel Attila Ügyvédi I.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 18260924-2-41

NAUČNO – TEHNOLOŠKI PARK CRNE GORE

Name: NAUČNO – TEHNOLOŠKI PARK CRNE GORE

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 30/31-21159-9

Address: Bulevar Mihaila Lalića, 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: http://www.ntpark.me

Total budget: EUR 104 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 83 200.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 20 800.00

Univerzitet u Novom Sadu Fakultet tehničkih nauka

Name: Univerzitet u Novom Sadu Fakultet tehničkih nauka

Department: Department of Computing and Control Engineering

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 100724720

Address: Trg Dositeja Obradovica, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia

Department address: Trg Dositeja Obradovica, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.ftn.uns.ac.rs

Total budget: EUR 97 500.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 78 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 19 500.00

Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Fakultet strojarstva i brodogradnje

Name: Sveučilište u Zagrebu, Fakultet strojarstva i brodogradnje

Department: Department of Energy, Power Engineering and Environment

Partner’s ID if not PIC: HR22910368449

Address: Ivana Lucica, 10002 Zagreb, Croatia

Department address: Ivana Lucica, 10002 Zagreb, Croatia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://www.fsb.unizg.hr/index.php?fsbonline

Total budget: EUR 182 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 145 600.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 36 400.00

N.A. Partner has withdrawn from the consortium on 12.06.2023

Name: N.A. Partner has withdrawn from the consortium on 12.06.2023

Partner’s ID if not PIC: CZ00063517

Address: N.A., N.A. N.A., Czech Republic

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Gemeinde Fuchstal

Name: Gemeinde Fuchstal

Partner’s ID if not PIC: DE128679883

Address: Bahnhofstraße, 86925 Fuchstal-Leeder, Germany

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Website: https://fuchstal.de/

Total budget: EUR 244 440.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 195 552.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 48 888.00

Contractors:

Name: eplan GmbH
VAT registration or tax identification number: ID: DE265021229 153/141/11661
Name: Kommunalunternehmen Fuchstal
VAT registration or tax identification number: DED2102V.HRA21281

Asociatia de Dezvoltare Intercomunitara Zona Metropolitana Oradea

Name: Asociatia de Dezvoltare Intercomunitara Zona Metropolitana Oradea

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 17662975

Address: Piata Unirii, 410100 Oradea, Romania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: https://zmo.ro/

Total budget: EUR 207 520.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 166 016.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 41 504.00

Contractors:

Name: SC Optimeast Europe Srl
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO36806953

Inovační centrum Ústeckého kraje, z. s

Name: Inovační centrum Ústeckého kraje, z. s

Partner’s ID if not PIC: CZ04542088

Address: Velka Hradebni, 400 01 Usti nad Labem, Czech Republic

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Business support organisation

Website: https://www.icuk.cz

Total budget: EUR 270 100.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 216 080.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 54 020.00

Centar za energiju, energijsku efikasnost i okolinu

Name: Centar za energiju, energijsku efikasnost i okolinu

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 4210285090007

Address: Đoke Mazalića , 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: https://ceeo.ba/

Total budget: EUR 104 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 83 200.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 20 800.00

Verein für Verantwortungsvolle Stadtentwicklung und Kommunikation

Name: Verein für Verantwortungsvolle Stadtentwicklung und Kommunikation

Partner’s ID if not PIC: ZVR-number 1867409646

Address: Schlossstrasse, 8522 Groß Sankt Florian, Austria

Legal status: private

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: https://veraverein.at

Elektro Gorenjska, podjetje za distribucijo električne energije, d.d.

Name: Elektro Gorenjska, podjetje za distribucijo električne energije, d.d.

Department: Research and development

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SI20389264

Address: Ulica Mirka Vadnova, 4000 Kranj, Slovenia

Department address: Ulica Mirka Vadnova, 4000 Kranj, Slovenia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Infrastructure and (public) service provider

Website: https://www.elektro-gorenjska.si/

Total budget: EUR 135 200.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 108 160.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 27 040.00

BSC, Poslovno podporni center d.o.o. Kranj

Name: BSC, Poslovno podporni center d.o.o. Kranj

Department: Department of International projects

Partner’s ID if not PIC: SI32865597

Address: Cesta Staneta Žagarja, 4000 Kranj, Slovenia

Department address: Cesta Staneta Žagarja, 4000 Kranj, Slovenia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Sectoral agency

Website: http://www.bsc-kranj.si

Total budget: EUR 162 500.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 130 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 32 500.00

Contractors:

Name: LORA STUDIO d.o.o.
VAT registration or tax identification number: SI77838718
Name: LEAG
VAT registration or tax identification number: SI83738975

Pannon Egyetem

Name: Pannon Egyetem

Department: N.A.

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 19310321-2-19

Address: Egyetem, H-8200 Veszprém, Hungary

Department address: Szent István tér, 5600 Békéscsaba, Hungary

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://international.uni-pannon.hu/hu/

Total budget: EUR 287 420.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 229 936.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 57 484.00

Fakultet strojarstva i brodogradnje Sveučilišta u Zagrebu

Name: Fakultet strojarstva i brodogradnje Sveučilišta u Zagrebu

Department: Department of Energy, Power Engineering and Environment

Partner’s ID if not PIC: HR22910368449

Address: Ivana Lucica, 10002 Zagreb, Croatia

Department address: Ivana Lucica, 10002 Zagreb, Croatia

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: https://www.fsb.unizg.hr/index.php?fsbonline

Total budget: EUR 182 000.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 145 600.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 80.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 36 400.00

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PARK MONTENEGRO

Analysing and promoting energy storage solutions, developing tools to mitigate the intermittency of RES,contributing to an accelerated transition to renewable energy and more balanced electrical grids

Partners and Projects info

Univerzitet Novi Sad, Fakultet tehničkih nauka

Partners and Projects info

University of Zagreb, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture

Partners and Projects info

N.A. Partner has withdrawn from the consortium on 12.06.2023

Partners and Projects info

Municipality of Fuchstal

Partners and Projects info

Oradea Metropolitan Area Intercommunity Development Association

Partners and Projects info

Innovation Centre of the Usti Region

Partners and Projects info

Center for Energy, Energy Efficiency and Environment

Partners and Projects info

Association for responsible urban development and communication

Partners and Projects info

Elektro Gorenjska, electrical distribution company, JSCo.

Partners and Projects info

BSC, Business support centre L.t.d., Kranj

Partners and Projects info

University of Pannonia

Partners and Projects info

Békéscsaba, City of County Rank

Partners and Projects info

University of Zagreb - Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Analysing and promoting energy storage solutions, developing tools to mitigate the intermittency of RES,contributing to an accelerated transition to renewable energy and more balanced electrical grids

Project acronym: StoreMore

Project ID: DRP0200271

Project start date: 2024-01-01

Project end date: 2026-06-30

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

REPowerEU (EN) | REPowerEU is about rapidly reducing our dependence on Russian fossil fuels by fast forwarding the clean transition and joining forces to achieve a more resilient energy system and a true Energy Union. REPowerEU plan puts forward a set of actions to 1) save energy; 2) diversify supplies; 3) quickly substitute fossil fuels by accelerating Europe’s clean energy transition;
Our project resonates with the facility's priorities and is well-positioned to complement its efforts towards enhancing energy storage capabilities and transitioning to renewable energy sources.
One of the key priorities of the REPowerEU facility is to ensure energy security and independence through diversification of energy sources and increased self-reliance. This priority is inherently woven into the StoreMore project's aim of incentivizing investments in energy storage solutions. By promoting effective energy storage solutions, StoreMore facilitates increased utilisation of renewable energy sources and reduces dependence on fossil fuels and external energy providers.
Moreover, REPowerEU emphasises the importance of sustainability and the reduction of carbon emissions. Our project contributes to this goal by advocating the use of storage solutions that avoid the use of lithium, cobalt, and nickel – materials that are associated with significant environmental impacts during their extraction and supply chain processes. This approach aligns with REPowerEU's emphasis on environmentally friendly energy practices.
In the spirit of REPowerEU's push for innovation, StoreMore is pioneering a catalogue of energy storage options and a modelling tool for investments. These innovative tools not only contribute to the digitisation of energy management but also empower stakeholders to make informed investment decisions. (EN), EU Recovery and Resilience Facility (EN) | EU Recovery and Resilience Facility
However timing of the project and RFF funded investments can be tight, the StoreMore project still aligns well with the priorities of the EU RRF, particularly its focus on promoting the green and digital transitions.
The green transition, a key priority of the RRF, is a fundamental component of our project. The StoreMore project contributes significantly to the green transition by advocating for the increased use of renewable energy sources (RES) and efficient energy storage. This alignment with RRF objectives makes our project not only compatible with the RRF's aims but also a potential beneficiary of its funds, which can further enhance the scope and reach of our initiatives.
The RRF's primary focus is on supporting and stimulating investments to drive the recovery of EU economies post-COVID-19. The StoreMore project specifically encourages investments in innovative energy storage solutions that could increase the efficiency and stability of RES. The RRF funds can act as a catalyst, providing a boost to these investments. By increasing energy storage capacities, we can significantly improve grid resilience and energy independence. This, in turn, aligns with the RRF's objective of fostering economic cohesion and reducing economic disparities across EU member states.
By aligning with the RRF's green transitions and leveraging the potential financial support, our project can significantly enhance investments in energy storage capacities, further supporting the EU's recovery and resilience objectives.
(EN), A not exhaustive list of national programmes in the 2021-27 period:
Czech Republic
"Operační Program Životní Prostředí" (OPŽP) (Operational Programme Environment (OPE)): This programme focuses on improving the environment and developing capacities for research and development. It includes provisions for introducing modern and highly efficient methods of production, distribution, and storage of energy, increasing energy efficiency and energy savings, and effective and economical use of renewable energy sources.
SO1.2 – RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES (7B CZK)
Austria:
Climate and Energy Fund (Klima- und Energiefonds)
This fund supports projects that contribute to the energy transition, including energy storage solutions.
The specific objective relevant for StoreMore under this program would be the promotion of innovative energy technologies and the development of energy infrastructure. This includes the financing of projects that contribute to the expansion and optimization of energy storage systems.
Germany, Bayern:
Europäischer Fonds für regionale Entwicklung in Bayern
2. Climate and Environmental Protection (Klima- und Umweltschutz): Energy efficiency in municipal infrastructures -> formation of energy communities. The funding measures make a contribution to sustainable urban development. They are anchored in an integrated urban development concept at community level.
Slovenia:
Cohesion Policy Programme 2021-2027 (Program kohezijske politike)
Slovenia will invest 806 million euros in a more environmentally friendly, low-carbon transition to a carbon-neutral and resilient economy. The funds will contribute to the decarbonisation of the country and the development of renewable energy sources.
Croatia:
Green and Low-Carbon Transition (Zeleni i niskougljični prijelaz) SO of the Operational Programme for Competitiveness and Cohesion 2021-2027 which aims to improve energy efficiency, increase the share of renewables in energy production up to 60% of electricity in 2030 (EN) | StoreMore and national/regional programmes across the Danube Region can create a powerful synergy to accelerate the green energy transition. These national programmes provide substantial financing options for the energy storage solutions that StoreMore is set to introduce. By aligning our efforts, we can significantly enhance the impact and reach of our initiatives.
Energy communities are a key area of focus in this regard. They represent a new paradigm in energy production and consumption, where energy is generated and used locally. This model is highly efficient and sustainable, but it also presents unique challenges - particularly in terms of managing the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources (RES).
This is where StoreMore comes in. Our project is developing innovative energy storage solutions that can smooth out the peaks and valleys in RES production and consumption. By storing excess energy during periods of high production and releasing it during periods of high demand, we can ensure a steady, reliable supply of green energy.
These storage solutions are a crucial component of the energy community model. And with the financial support provided by national programmes, they can be implemented on a much larger scale. This synergy between StoreMore and national programmes can thus facilitate the widespread adoption of energy communities across the Danube Region.
Moreover, the national programmes can also support the broader objectives of StoreMore. By financing investments in RES and energy storage, they can help to promote the use of these technologies and drive the transition towards a more sustainable energy system. This aligns perfectly with the goals of StoreMore, creating a mutually beneficial partnership that can accelerate the green energy transition in the Danube Region. (EN), Interreg Danube STRIDE
Our project aligns closely with the aims and accomplishments of the Interreg Danube STRIDE initiative, which successfully advanced understanding of smart grid concepts and supported their integration into regional and local policies across the Danube region. Through STRIDE's knowledge transfer and development of planning tools, local policy makers have received crucial assistance in improving energy planning, a foundation upon which we aim to further build. STRIDE's focus on smart grid concepts is highly complementary to our project's focus on energy storage solutions, as the integration of these solutions into a smart grid is an essential aspect of fully realising the potential of renewable energy sources. (EN) | By leveraging the regional analyses, strategies, action plans and other tools developed by STRIDE, our project aims to provide a more complete, targeted and effective set of interventions to encourage investment in energy storage solutions. The methodology for regional analysis, guidebook, and platform created by STRIDE will serve as invaluable resources in our effort to map stakeholders, understand the current state of play, and design and implement effective strategies for promoting energy storage. As STRIDE's tools are designed for application across the entire Danube region, our project's results will also have a high replication value, accelerating the integration of energy storage solutions and promoting a more sustainable, resilient energy sector in the region.
While the STRIDE project has made significant strides in integrating smart grid concepts into regional and local policies, our project aims to extend this integration by concentrating on the essential component of energy storage solutions. Unlike STRIDE, which was primarily focused on facilitating the deployment of smart grid systems, our project emphasises the vital role of energy storage in improving the efficiency and stability of these systems.
Our project introduces innovation by expanding the scope of technologies considered. Whereas STRIDE primarily facilitated smart grid technology, our initiative broadens the view to include a comprehensive range of energy storage options. This catalogue of technologies not only captures the conventional methods but also includes emerging and less recognised solutions that can be tailored to the specific needs of different localities.
Our project also diverges from STRIDE in the way it encourages and facilitates practical implementation. We are not just providing knowledge and strategies but also piloting various energy storage solutions in different settings. This hands-on approach will yield real-world data on the efficacy and scalability of these solutions. (EN), Interreg Danube CSSC LAB
While the CSSC LAB project has laid a strong foundation for the energy transition in the Danube region, our project seeks to expand upon this groundwork by focusing on broader applications and unique energy storage solutions. Unlike CSSC LAB, which primarily targeted urban environments and medium-sized cities, our project addresses the energy needs of a wider spectrum of environments, including rural and remote areas where energy stability is even more critical. (EN) | Our project distinguishes itself through its innovative approach to energy storage technology. Where CSSC LAB focused on building capacity and demonstrating viable storage solutions within the urban context, we are compiling a comprehensive menu of storage technologies, some of which may be cutting-edge and less explored in the Danube region. This will allow for a broader range of applications and potentially unlock new solutions for energy storage.
Moreover, our project is taking a further step by not only providing the knowledge and tools, but also actively facilitating pilot projects where different energy storage solutions will be tested in real-life settings. This practical, hands-on approach will provide valuable insights into the implementation process and the performance of different energy storage solutions under different circumstances.
Lastly, while CSSC LAB has done an excellent job in establishing demo-centers and creating an online learning platform, our project aims to go a step further. We plan to create an interactive, user-friendly platform where stakeholders can not only learn about different energy storage options, but also model potential investments and view case studies of successful implementations. This will be complemented by a robust communication strategy aimed at educating a broader audience about the benefits of energy storage, thereby further promoting the transition to a more sustainable energy future in the Danube region.
To further improve connection with CSSC LAB and better understanding of its results, our project secured the support of Mr. Aleksandar Janičić who will support implementation of StoreMore as an expert employed by PP13. (EN), Interreg Central Europe STORE4HUC project:
Aiming to enhance territorial low-carbon energy planning strategies, they enriched policies that support climate mitigation in historic urban centers by developing policy recommendations for implementation and sharing lessons learned in their four pilot sites. There, they realized storage solutions in historic urban areas and experienced and overcame difficulties firsthand. They also developed energy management tools for various stakeholders to assist them in making decisions about investing in an energy storage solution.
Pilots:
City of Cuneo implemented battery storage system connected to a photovoltaic
array on a means of public transport. City of Lendava installed water buffer storage for heat in connection with a geothermal district heating system. Weiz also implemented thermal storage: central storage, network and decentralised storage at the consumers. During Bračak pilot, the city integrated a newly installed solar PV system with batteries into an energy management system. (EN) | We acknowledge the valuable groundwork laid by the STORE4HUC project, particularly in the realm of enhancing territorial low-carbon energy planning strategies and enriching policies that support climate mitigation in historic urban centers. The STORE4HUC project's experience in implementing storage solutions in historic urban areas and developing energy management tools for various stakeholders provides a solid foundation for StoreMore to build upon. The lessons learned from the STORE4HUC project's pilot sites will be instrumental in informing StoreMore's approach to overcoming potential challenges and difficulties.
However, StoreMore aims to take a step further by expanding the focus beyond lithium-ion batteries, which were the storage solutions for electricity implemented in the STORE4HUC project. StoreMore recognises the need for a more diverse range of sustainable energy storage solutions to cater to the varying needs and contexts of different regions. Therefore, StoreMore is dedicated to exploring and developing innovative, scalable, and modular alternative electricity storage solutions. These alternatives are designed to be more adaptable and less environmentally detrimental than conventional options, helping to reshape the energy storage landscape.
In addition, StoreMore is committed to promoting sustainability in the energy storage sector. While STORE4HUC made significant strides in implementing storage solutions connected to renewable energy sources, -We aim to further this effort by promoting other sustainable solutions beyond lithium-ion batteries. By doing so, StoreMore not only contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions but also addresses potential issues related to the increasing demand and environmental impact of lithium extraction and processing. In essence, StoreMore aims to provide a solution that is economically viable, environmentally friendly, and technologically advanced, thereby taking the achievements of STORE4HUC a step further. (EN), Interreg Danube DANUP-2-GAS
In line with the EU climate targets for 2030 and the EUSDR PA2 goals, DanuP-2-Gas advanced transnational energy planning by promoting generation and storage strategies for renewables in the Danube Region by coupling the electric power and gas sector. DanuP-2-Gas brought together energy agencies, business actors, public authorities, and research institutions via the Danube Energy Platform. Based on the platform developed during the DTP project ENERGY BARGE, it incorporated all pre-existing tools and, among others, an Atlas, mapping previously unexamined available biomass and energy infrastructure. (EN) | The DanuP-2-Gas project, funded by the Interreg Danube programme, has made significant strides in driving energy security and diversity in the Danube Region. The project has focused on combining bioenergy with surplus renewable energy, creating an innovative model for energy production and storage. This aligns closely with the objectives of the StoreMore project, which also seeks to enhance energy security and sustainability through innovative storage solutions.
One of the key outputs of the DanuP-2-Gas project is the development of the Transnational Renewable Energy Atlas and the Tool for Optimizing Sector Coupling Hubs. These resources provide valuable data and insights into the renewable energy landscape in the Danube Region, which can be leveraged by the StoreMore project. The Atlas, in particular, can serve as a foundational resource for StoreMore, providing a comprehensive input for the Stakeholder Map (A1.1) and State of Play analysis (A1.2).
While there are evident synergies between the two projects, StoreMore explores a different direction, with different scope and ambition. Unlike DanuP-2-Gas, which primarily concentrated on bioenergy and surplus renewable energy, StoreMore is investigating a broad spectrum of direct electricity storage solutions. The project is forward-looking, envisioning a future where lithium-ion batteries are not the only viable option. StoreMore is identifying cutting-edge technologies that are constantly emerging for direct electricity storage in one step (e.g. gravity storage, compressed CO2, chemical alternatives to lithium-ion batteries, etc.). The challenges addressed by StoreMore are distinct, as are the solutions, but the foundation and ultimate goal remain the same: facilitating a green energy transition towards a more sustainable Danube Region. (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 2 178 580.00

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 1 742 864.00

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 80.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Deliverables:

Danube Region Stakeholder Map: actors on the electricity market and assessment of target group needs
State of Play Report: Energy Storage Landscape in the Danube Region
Cutting-Edge Energy Storage Outlook for the Danube Region
Best Practice Site Visit Report
Comprehensive Catalogue of Sustainable Energy Storage Solutions (CSESS)
Online Modelling Tool for Energy Storage Solutions
AI-Driven Renewable Energy Source Optimisation Tool
Comprehensive Pilot Testing and Evaluation of the energy storage Modelling Tool
Pilot tested RES Optimisation Tool by partners and external stakeholders of the target groups
Feasibility Studies for Sustainable Energy Storage systems
Fine-tuned energy storage modelling and RES optimisation tools
Policy recommendations on national/regional level for prioritizing sustainable energy storage
Information platform for project updates and hosting outputs
Opening conference
Closing conference
National workshops with relevant stakeholders
informational film about forward-looking energy storage solutions
Stakeholder Engagement Webinars
policy briefs aimed at decision-makers, with key findings and offering actionable recommendations

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyDanubeRegion The project aligns closely with PA2 of the EUSDR in several ways.
T7 concerning innovative energy storage solutions. This is the core of our project, directly aligning with these aims. Our work will lead to useful tools incentivising and supporting investment in energy storage potentials, mobilise and inform stakeholders. We also intend to contribute to policies promoting more sustainable energy storage options than the conventional Li batteries.
Target 1 aim at exploring and promoting the use of renewable energy sources to increase energy independence. Our project directly contributes to this goal by tackling the intermittent nature of RES.
T3 address decarbonization of transport. Our project indirectly contributes to this action through the development of cleaner energy storage options that may, in the future, be employed in electric transport systems.
T4 emphasise the need for innovative low-carbon technologies. Our project, aiming to innovate in the area of energy storage, can potentially lead to the development and promotion of new technology-focused projects, in alignment with Target 4.
T5 seek to enhance regional cooperation and connectivity of energy markets. Our stakeholder mapping and state-of-play analysis contribute to regional collaboration and can provide useful insights for the CESEC initiative, facilitating its implementation.
...
EUStrategyDanubeRegion ...
T6 aim to decrease energy poverty, protect vulnerable consumers, and empower consumers to engage in the energy market. Our project indirectly supports these goals by developing storage solutions to tackle the intermittency of RES, which contributes to a more balanced and stable national grid. By doing so, we support policies that allow more citizens to connect their own RES installations to the grid, particularly in countries where there are limitations to this, such as Hungary. Our project's focus on environmentally sustainable and economically feasible storage solutions also promotes consumer protection, as it targets a reduction in reliance on high-cost, fossil fuel-based energy production.
T8 involve exchange of information, best practices, and joint projects. We will be holding joint international workshops, producing a comprehensive study on alternative energy storage options, thus fostering cooperation with stakeholders at various levels, aligning perfectly with these objectives.
EuropeanGreenDeal Our project contributes significantly to the European Green Deal (EGD) in several ways:
Increasing the Use of RES: The project directly supports the EGDs goal to increase the EU's reliance on renewable energy. It does this by tackling the central challenge of energy storage - a necessary component for the more significant and efficient use of renewable energy sources (RES).
Advancing Energy Efficiency: By integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) to optimise periods of charging and discharging storage capacities, the project promotes energy efficiency, a crucial aspect of the Green Deal. Efficient energy use will not only save resources but also reduce the need for additional production capacities.
Promoting Clean Technologies: The project innovates by exploring and developing cleaner, alternative electricity storage solutions. This move aligns with the Green Deal's push for the advancement and adoption of clean technologies and the circular economy.
Reducing Emissions: By facilitating the transition to RES and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the project aids in the decrease of greenhouse gas emissions, directly contributing to the EGD's target of a 55% reduction in emissions by 2030 and a net-zero emissions target by 2050.
Advocating for 'Just Transition': The project acknowledges the societal implications of transitioning to a green economy. It aims to create solutions that are not just environmentally friendly but also economically feasible, ensuring that the move to renewable energy is sustainable for all stakeholders.
In conclusion, our project's aims and objectives align well with the EGD's vision. By addressing the crucial challenge of energy storage, promoting cleaner technologies, and supporting the broader use of RES, the project is actively contributing to the EU's path towards a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive future.
TerritorialAgenda2030 Our ambition closely aligns with the priorities outlined in the Territorial Agenda 2030, which aims to foster a more sustainable and inclusive future for all regions in the European Union.
TA2030 focuses multiple fields one of those is Sustainable development and climate change. Actions are needed in: (37) Air, soil and water quality (38) Secure, affordable and sustainable energy - are most relevant in connection to our project.
We intend to address the issue of soil and water quality by replacing environmentally harmful storage solutions by more environmentally friendly ones. We ensure special focus on environmental sustainability aspects when preparing the menu of alternative energy storage solutions and design our modelling tool to draw attention to more sustainable storage options.
(38):
- Energy Security: By enhancing energy storage capabilities, We can help ensure a more stable and reliable energy supply. This is particularly important given the intermittency of RES like wind and solar. Better energy storage can help smooth out these fluctuations, improving energy security.
- Energy efficiency: producing, STORING and using energy locally decrease/eliminate transmission losses. Storage is the key in this concept which serves as a bridge between the time of producing and consuming RES. Supporting tools for storage investments contribute to more of the energy produced by RES used locally thus decrease energy waste.
- Sustainable Energy: StoreMore is focused on energy storage, a crucial component of a sustainable energy system. By improving energy storage technologies, the project can help increase the share of renewable energy in the energy mix, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to sustainability.
- Affordability: Improved energy storage can also contribute to affordability. By allowing excess energy to be stored and then used when needed, energy storage can help reduce costs associated with energy production and consumption.

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 084 - Pilot actions developed jointly and implemented in projects, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:

Delivered output indicator(s):

(RCO87) Organisations cooperating across borders: 16.0

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:

Programme Result Indicator:

ISI - Organisations with increased institutional capacity due to their participation in cooperation activities across the borders, Measurement unit: No. of organisations

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSDR

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Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B Danube

Last month that data in keep.eu was retrieved from the Programme's website or received from the Programme

2025-12-17

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

138 / 138 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

1 413 / 1 413 (100%)

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Analysing and promoting energy storage solutions, developing tools to mitigate the intermittency of RES,contributing to an accelerated transition to renewable energy and more balanced electrical grids

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Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

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