On 5 September, NetZeroCities launched a groundbreaking programme that tests new approaches to reaching climate neutrality goals across cities in Europe. This Pilot Cities Programme is part of the EU Mission for 100 climate-neutral and smart cities (“EU Cities Mission”), providing €32 million in grants and hands-on support to cities. The call invites applications from all cities that are committing to the objectives of the EU Cities Mission and are located in EU Member States and Associated Countries.
The Pilot Cities programme will identify and support European cities to test and implement innovative approaches to rapid decarbonisation. The Pilot Cities Programme will help cities as they test out locally tailored actions towards a climate transition. Selected cities will be provided with grants funded under Horizon 2020, the European Commission’s 2014-2020 Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (R&I). Cities will receive such support in the amounts of € 0.5 million, € 1 million, or € 1.5 million in order to deploy and scale up R&I and systemic solutions.
We are looking for reviewers
NetZeroCities is now looking for external experts that will be assigned to support the evaluation of the applications received for the Pilot Cities Programme Call. The reviewers will add to the wealth of knowledge already existing in the NetZeroCities consortium by bringing their specific expertise on several subject areas. It is also a requirement that we engage independent experts at the request of our funders for the review of proposals and projects to ensure a fair process– such as for the NetZeroCities Pilot Cities Programme.
Evaluate the applications as an external expert
The portfolio of proposals to be evaluated will pertain to the NZC priorities: the transition of relevant city systems, domains related to their main emissions sources, and to the climate-neutral city transition. This may include stationary energy, built environment, energy generation, mobility and transport, green industry, circular economy, and nature-based solutions.
To be considered for assignment, successful applicants will require in-depth knowledge of one or more of our priority areas, as well as knowledge, experience, and expertise in the NetZeroCities knowledge sectors that are detailed in the Call document. The selection process involves ranking applications based on assessment criteria that are also detailed in the Call document.
Deadline of the Call
Submit your application between 16 September and 5 October 23.59 CEST. Notification of successful and unsuccessful applications will be happening on 14 October.
