Short introduction to SES website

Within the Sixth Framework Programme (2002-2006) for research, technological development and demonstration (RTD), non-nuclear energy research is mainly funded under the "Sustainable Energy Systems" (SES) thematic sub-priority.

This site provides information on the research activities to be funded by the European Commission under this sub-priority as well as support for the submission of proposals and project management.

Please note that the SES programme is implemented in two complementary parts:

• Research activities having an impact in the short and medium term.The focus here is on integrated demonstration-type actions with a typical research component of up to about 20% and including, where appropriate, pre-normative research, energy technology integration, dissemination and technology transfer activities. The risks to be addressed are mainly technological and might include market related and financial issues. Projects funded under this part of the programme are managed by DG Energy and Transport.

• Research activities having an impact in the medium and longer term.The focus here is on research and development activities (including pre-normative and socio-economic research and the validation of technical and economic feasibility in pilot plants and prototypes), research-related networking activities, training and dissemination activities. The main risks to be addressed are scientific and technological rather than market and financial. Projects funded under this part of the programme are managed by DG Research.

In addition to the research areas defined under the "Sustainable Energy Systems" sub-priority, energy research will also be financed through specific activities designed to provide Scientific Support to Policies (SSP). Energy related RTD may also be carried out in the context of the Specific Programme "Structuring the European Research Area", for example in the areas of "horizontal research activities involving SMEs", "specific measures in support of international co-operation", "human resources and mobility", "research infrastructures", and "science and society".