
The competition for startups and scaleups in renewable energy
Jointly organised by Rockstart, Shell, Unknown Campus and YES!Delft, the New Energy Challenge offers a platform for cutting-edge innovators to develop emerging technologies that promote sustainability and shape the future of the energy sector at scale. Finalists will join a variety of training sessions during an exciting accelerator programme. They will work with investors and experts during the final phase of the challenge, unlocking knowledge, contacts, and support needed to develop their company and product. The winning companies may be awarded a collaboration or funding to further scale their business.
What are we looking for?
The New Energy Challenge 2025 is seeking technologies that will contribute to the decarbonisation and de-fossilisation of energy operations. We are looking for scalable, efficient solutions that integrate into existing infrastructure and drive advancements in the following areas:
CO2 methanation to synthetic methane
Breakthrough technologies that efficiently convert CO₂ and green hydrogen into synthetic methane, even under intermittent renewable energy conditions.
Hydrogen storage, carriers and distribution
Innovative hydrogen transport and storage solutions that are safer, more cost-effective, and compatible with current infrastructure.
Renewable natural gas (RNG)
Solutions that convert biological waste into low-carbon biomethane, improving feedstock usage, methane output, and carbon circularity.
Green hydrogen production
Next-gen electrolysis technologies that reduce the cost of green hydrogen and improve efficiency, scalability, and integration into existing value chains.
Carbon removal
Technologies that actively remove Carbon from the atmosphere, including CO2 storage, geochemical conversion, and MRV systems.