EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland's electricity grid, has opened applications for the fourth annual CleanerGrid competition and is calling on third-level students across the Republic of Ireland to take part.

The top award totals €12,000, split as €6,000 for the winning student or team and €6,000 for their third-level institution.

Designed to spark fresh thinking and creativity, CleanerGrid invites students to propose practical ideas that can accelerate Ireland’s transition to clean energy. This year’s focus, 'Powering Up the Energy Citizen', asks entrants to consider how a transmission system operator such as EirGrid can enable citizens, communities and emerging consumer technologies to help deliver a reliable, affordable and decarbonised electricity system—tackling both the opportunities and the challenges ahead.

With smart meters, electric vehicles, heat pumps, rooftop solar, battery storage and flexible tariffs becoming more widespread, the public is set to play a far more active role in how and when electricity is used. That shift brings new possibilities and underscores the need for deeper collaboration and engagement across society.

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Entries can draw on any discipline—including engineering, policy, economics, environmental science, data and more—and should present original, actionable proposals that can make a meaningful contribution to Ireland’s clean energy future.

The competition is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students below PhD level from any third-level institution in the Republic of Ireland. Students may apply individually or in teams of up to six, and interdisciplinary groups are encouraged. Applications open on 22 September, with full details at www.eirgrid.ie/cleanergrid.

After submissions are assessed, the strongest entrants will be invited to EirGrid’s head office to present their innovations to a panel of industry experts, including members of the company’s senior management team. In 2026, the competition attracted 33 submissions involving 115 students from nine higher-education institutions.

Welcoming the launch, EirGrid's Chief Energy Transition Officer, Liam Ryan, said: "EirGrid is delighted to launch CleanerGrid for its fourth year. As Ireland continues its journey towards a secure, affordable and decarbonised electricity system, citizens and communities will play an increasingly important role in shaping our energy future.

"This year's theme, challenges students to explore how people, technology and innovation can work together to support a more flexible, resilient and sustainable electricity network. From smart technologies and renewable energy to new ways of engaging communities, the ideas of students can unlock new opportunities for our energy system.

"CleanerGrid provides a valuable platform for the next generation of thinkers and innovators to contribute fresh perspectives on some of the most important challenges facing our society. We look forward to seeing the creativity and ambition of this year's entries and wish all participants the very best of luck."