Design Studies

Specific objectives

The objective of this scheme is to contribute, on a case-by-case basis, to feasibility studies and technical preparatory work undertaken in one or a number of Member States or Associated States, for those new infrastructures which have a clear European dimension and interest, taking into account the needs of all potential users and systematically exploring the possibilities of contributions from other sources, including the European Investment Bank (EIB), or the Structural Funds (for projects located in Member States) for the funding of these infrastructures.

Design studies related to future facilities of world-wide relevance not existing in Europe (including infrastructures that might be constructed outside the Member States and Associated States), but to which European organisations intend to participate are included. The upgrading of existing infrastructures may also be considered, when the end result is intended to be equivalent to, or be capable of replacing, a new infrastructure.

• Feasibility studies will aim at laying the conceptual foundations of a potential new or enhanced infrastructure. This could consist in the basic feasibility study of a specific new facility or in exploring a new fundamental technology or technique underpinning a whole new concept. Alternatively, a feasibility study could cover the detailed engineering design of a proposed infrastructure, in particular in relation to its most technologically advanced aspects (i.e. excluding the detailed design of standard elements of the new infrastructure).
• Technical preparatory work will cover the development and testing of components, subsystems, materials or techniques (including dedicated software) that are critical for the future development of a new or enhanced infrastructure. Support will however not be provided for preparatory work based on existing or proven techniques or technologies, nor when it aims at reproducing available components or materials.