The new project builds upon the longstanding work and expertise (i.e. 3 previous projects) developed by the secretariat of the European Technology and Innovation Platform on Renewable Heating and Cooling (RHC-ETIP) since its inception in 2009. It reflects a deep understanding of the platform’s strategic objectives and operational needs, and aims to reinforce and expand the support provided to its stakeholders. The secretariat has played a pivotal role in coordinating activities that advance the implementation of a comprehensive research and innovation strategy to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy sources for heating and cooling. These efforts are aligned with the goals of the European Green Deal and contribute to the growth and market integration of RHC technologies. Through the organisation of meetings, events, and stakeholder consultations, and the preparation of both technical and policy-relevant documents, the secretariat has consistently worked to elevate the visibility and importance of the RHC sector. In addition, the secretariat has provided consensus-based strategic input to the SET-Plan and is actively engaged in its ongoing reform and governance restructuring.

This project continues and strengthens these efforts, with a renewed focus on expanding the RHC-ETIP’s membership base—particularly by engaging national-level policymakers and stakeholders, as well as emerging actors such as demand-side market representatives and socioeconomic experts. It also places greater emphasis on supporting the SET-Plan through the update of the RHC-ETIP Vision and Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA). By fostering collaboration among a diverse range of stakeholders from industry, research, and academia, the SecRHC-4.0 will continue to support the RHC sector in enhancing its competitiveness, both in comparison to conventional heating and cooling technologies and in the broader context of renewable energy solutions.

EUREC’s role: in quality of project coordinator, EUREC is the ultimate responsible for supporting and coordinating the activities of the RHC-ETIP’s Members.