Researching the technical, social & economic factors impacting the energy performance of Smart Buildings (Built4People Partnership)

The research call “Researching the technical, social & economic factors impacting the energy performance of Smart Buildings” within the framework of the European Partnership “Built4People” aims to systematically investigate technical, socio-economic, and user-related aspects of intelligent buildings. With a total budget of €5.25 million per project, full grants (100% funding rate) are provided for collaborative research projects (HORIZON RIA). Legal entities from EU member states or associated countries (exceptions for China) form consortia of at least three independent partners from three different countries. The projects must combine quantitative analyses of social and economic user groups (age, education, financial resources, etc.) with validations in at least three building types (e.g., residential, office, social housing). The objective is to develop inclusively oriented, user-centered planning and operational approaches and to formulate practical recommendations for equipment suppliers, architects, building owners, and facility managers. The final results should increase energy efficiency, enhance user satisfaction, and promote the holistic, lifecycle-oriented sustainability of smart buildings.

Submissions are made electronically by 15 September 2026 (17:00 Brussels time) via the EU Funding & Tenders Portal. Eligible costs include personnel expenses, material costs, travel expenses, subcontractor services, as well as equipment and laboratory facilities. Evaluation is based on the criteria of innovation content, relevance for Europe and target groups, as well as quality and efficiency of project implementation. Partnerships may be supplemented by associated partners, subcontractors, and third-party financial support. Required documents include application parts A & B, project description, Gantt chart, CVs, financial plan, and ethics statement. This call promotes interdisciplinarity among social sciences, engineering, and economics and contributes to the targeted energy transition in European smart cities.