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New Energy Challenge
The New Energy Challenge is a competition for startups and scaleups in renewable energy, jointly organised by Rockstart, Shell, Unknown Campus and YES!Delft.
New Energy Challenge
The New Energy Challenge is a competition for startups and scaleups in renewable energy, jointly organised by Rockstart, Shell, Unknown Campus and YES!Delft. It 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 join training sessions in an accelerator programme and work with investors and experts; winning companies may be awarded a collaboration or funding to further scale.
General information
Firm type
Generalist
Year founded
2016
Location
Region
Europe
Country
Netherlands
City
Amsterdam
Corporate office
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Sector focus
Frequently asked questions
How does the New Energy Challenge source its pipeline?
The competition sources globally through the partner network's reach and a public application process. Rockstart and YES!Delft contribute deal flow from their accelerator and incubator portfolios, while Shell leverages its internal innovation scouting and the Shell GameChanger network. Finalists enter an intensive accelerator program in Amsterdam before presenting to a review panel that includes Shell Ventures.
Does the New Energy Challenge participate in fund commitments or only direct deals?
The competition facilitates direct deals exclusively. Participating startups and scaleups engage with Shell Ventures and Shell GameChanger for potential direct equity investments, pilot agreements, or commercial collaborations. There is no pooled NEC fund or co-mingled vehicle. Follow-on commitments from Rockstart or Unknown Group occur through each partner's existing fund structures, not through a dedicated NEC allocation.
Which sectors does the New Energy Challenge explicitly target?
Each edition defines specific technological themes. The 2025 edition sought green hydrogen production (next-gen electrolysis), hydrogen storage and distribution (including ammonia carriers), CO₂ methanation to synthetic methane, renewable natural gas from biological waste, and carbon dioxide removal — spanning direct air capture, geochemical CDR, and MRV systems for biogenic carbon removal.
Profile maintained by Altss using OSINT (open-source intelligence), regulatory filings, licensed data partners, and verified direct submissions. Read the methodology. Last updated: . Continuous refresh with full update cycles at least every 30 days.
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