Nordic Energy Challenge
An annual competition advancing new ideas for the Nordic energy transition
The Nordic Energy Challenge is an annual competition organised by Nordic Energy Research. Each year, stakeholders from across the Nordic region are invited to submit proposals addressing a selected theme relevant to the energy transition.
How the challenge works · Awards · Previous challenges · Previous winners
How the Nordic Energy Challenge works
The Nordic Energy Challenge is organised in stages. Deadlines and eligibility criteria are provided on the page for each annual challenge.
01
Call for abstracts
Participants submit a short proposal outlining their idea and its relevance to the annual theme.
02
Call for final proposals
Selected finalists are invited to further develop and submit a full proposal.
03
Award ceremony
Finalists present their proposals at a high-level Nordic event where the winners are announced.
Awards
Each year, three finalists are invited to present their proposals to the jury at the award ceremony. Prizes are awarded to recognise high-quality contributions that address the annual theme and demonstrate potential value for the Nordic energy transition.
1st prize
50,000 NOK
2nd prize
20,000 NOK
3rd prize
10,000 NOK
Nordic Energy Challenge 2026
Theme: Powering Nordic AI
About the theme
The Nordic energy system is entering a new era, where artificial intelligence (AI) can accelerate the green transition, strengthen resilience, and improve everyday energy use. With world-leading digital infrastructure, ambitious climate goals, and a strong tradition of trust and cooperation, the Nordics are uniquely positioned to shape how AI serves society through energy.
The challenge invites proposals exploring practical applications of AI within Nordic energy systems.
The purpose of the Nordic Energy Challenge
The Nordic Energy Challenge promotes innovative thinking and cross-sector collaboration on key Nordic energy priorities. By introducing a new theme each year, it reflects emerging developments in policy, technology and society.
Finalists present their proposals at a high-level Nordic event, where a jury awards prizes to the most promising contributions.
challenges
