Press Release<br>WISIONS - New Technology Radar and New SEPS Grant

WISIONS, an initiative of the Wuppertal Institute, has been actively promoting the introduction of sustainable energy solutions and resource efficiency since its inception in 2004.

The aim of its newly developed Technology Radar is to give a comprehensive overview of the existing renewable energy technologies and their possible future contribution to meeting basic energy needs.

Practical financial support for the implementation of projects and models is provided via the new round of SEPS (Sustainable Energy Project Support). The total grant fund for the 6th SEPS round (2010) is 350,000 Euros, to be divided among all projects. In its first five rounds, SEPS has become a well-established support scheme for sound, sustainable energy projects. A total of 47 SEPS projects have so far been selected for support. They cover a wide range of innovative sustainable energy solutions in some 36 countries.

From 2010 onwards, SEPS will be focusing on energy-related basic needs in its annual calls for applications. The focus of the new call is on projects that aim to secure access to clean and reliable electricity.

Purpose of WISIONS and the Technology Radar

A global transition to a sustainable system is crucial in order to satisfy the worldwide demand for energy in the future and to reduce energy poverty. The development and deployment of climate friendly technologies are a core element of this and key to achieving effective global climate change mitigation. However, the usual path of gradual diffusion of technologies is not fast enough for the demanding challenges ahead.

Two of the biggest barriers are the lack of funds and the lack of knowledge of existing and appropriate options. The WISIONS Technology Radar therefore aims to develop a scientifically founded source of information to contribute to the broad dissemination of technologies and the transfer of knowledge. The Technology Radar is a "renewable" source of information. It will be updated periodically as the Data Bank is being developed on a cumulative basis.

And with its SEPS grant, WISIONS aims to provide active support to ensure the implementation of innovative projects that are currently facing hurdles.

The deadline for submissions is 21 June 2010 (17:00 GMT). The total grant fund of 350,000 Euros will be divided among all projects, and a maximum of 8-10 projects will be selected for support.

WISIONS is supported by the Swiss-based foundation Pro Evolution.

Press release by Wuppertal Institute for Climate, Environment and Energy

Responsible: Prof. Dr. Uwe Schneidewind, President

Contact: Dorle Riechert, Public Relations

Tel. +49 (0)202 2492-180, Fax +49 (0)202 2492-108

E-mail: pr@wupperinst.org