Renewable Energy Networks Study 2026 Grant

Agence de la transition écologique (ADEME)

About this grant

This ADEME aid co-finances studies for district heating and cooling networks (réseaux de chaleur ou de froid) supplied by renewable energy and/or recovered renewable energy (EnR&R). The studies support the creation or extension of such networks. The aid runs from 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2026 and is described as in progress. The project it targets is a heating or cooling network linking several buildings, or a network-wide master plan (schéma directeur des réseaux) for a local authority. The networks must be powered by renewable or recovered energy. Depending on the region, ADEME relies on local partners who can provide free advice, opportunity notes and pre-feasibility studies. Investment aid for a network is conditional on a feasibility study for a new network, or a master plan for an extension. Study and master-plan aid requires the work to be done by a provider meeting an ADEME-validated standard. This is the RGE Études certification with the relevant renewable-energy qualifications, plus the OPQIBI 1319 certification for the network part of the project, or equivalent conditions. The page links to supporting documents: an expenditure categorisation guide, a filing guide, a technical guide on funding network studies, and model specifications from AMORCE and ADEME. Applications are filed through the AGIR platform, which requires an account.

Eligibility

The aid is open to local authorities (collectivités) and to businesses (entreprises). It covers all French regions (Toutes les Régions). The page points to a separate PDF with detailed eligibility and funding conditions, which was not included in the text provided. Applicants must have a district heating or cooling project spanning several buildings, or be seeking a master plan for their territory, with the network powered by renewable or recovered energy. Aid is granted mainly through ADEME's regional directorates. Prior contact with ADEME is recommended but not stated as mandatory.

Key requirements

• ✓Project must involve creating or extending a heating or cooling network fed by renewable or recovered energy
• ✓Funding covers up to 70% of the study cost, capped at €100,000
• ✓Study should deliver a master plan, feasibility assessment, or technical and economic verification needed for investment aid

Frequently asked questions

How much funding does Agence de la transition écologique (ADEME) offer?

Renewable Energy Networks Study offers Jusqu'à 70% du coût de l'étude, dans un maximum de 100 000 €.

When is the Renewable Energy Networks Study deadline?

Applications close 31 Dec 2026.

Who can apply for Renewable Energy Networks Study?

Eligibility covers organisations in FR; local-authority, engineering-contractor, consultancy. See the eligibility criteria above for the full conditions.

Relevant sectors

About this sector

Heating and cooling funding supports heat pumps, district heating, thermal networks, efficient cooling and the removal of fossil boilers. It arrives through national support schemes, local authority programmes and procurement for heat networks. Applicants typically need heat demand assessments, a connection plan and an operator for the system.