RFPs: WASCAL’s Innovative Ideas Competition for Sustainable Energy (WISE)Applicants are now invited to submit applications for the WASCAL’s Innovative Ideas Competition for Sustainable Energy to provide information and knowledge to its West African member countries from the local to the regional level. This call aims to foster and support the implementation of innovative projects and development & research ideas regarding renewable energy (RE) and green hydrogen (GH2) in West Africa. Specific objectives include expanding electricity access through innovative renewable energy and green hydrogen ideas, promoting development in rural and peri-urban areas, creating effective solutions for energy-related challenges, fostering community-level integration of renewable systems, and improving livelihoods across West Africa. With financial support from the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), WASCAL seeks to identify and fund short-term, groundbreaking projects and research ideas demonstrating the potential of renewable energy and green hydrogen to address regional energy challenges while promoting sustainable development. The initiative, known as WASCAL’s Innovative Ideas Competition for Sustainable Energy (WISE), invites individuals, groups, and legally registered associations from West African countries to present their projects or research ideas that align with renewable energy and green hydrogen innovation. Applicants can focus their proposals on developing a product, process, service, business model, or scientific study in areas such as renewable energy solutions, green hydrogen technologies, green mobility, energy access, biomass and waste recovery, energy-water-food nexus solutions, productive use of renewables, energy efficiency, and women’s empowerment in the energy sector. The initiative encourages contributions that can enhance socio-economic development, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas. Each selected project can receive a maximum grant of €20,000, with a project duration not exceeding 15 months. Eligible expenses include operational costs, travel, procurement of goods and services, and training activities directly linked to the project. The evaluation process involves two steps: eligibility screening and technical and financial assessment. Proposals will be reviewed by a selection committee of independent experts based on relevance, innovation, impact, sustainability, applicant qualifications, and budget feasibility. Successful applicants will undergo clarification meetings, receive award notifications, and participate in a launch ceremony organized by WASCAL. Periodic monitoring, evaluations, and reporting will ensure accountability and project success. Applications must be submitted by December 31, 2025 (11:59 pm GMT+00) with all required documents attached in PDF format. Proposals may be written in English or French, and applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid submission issues. For more information, visit WASCAL.