The project aims to demonstrate an ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) platform that converts solar heat stored in the oceans into reliable, cost-effective energy. It utilizes circular materials, advanced computational modeling, and floating platforms. Economic, social, and environmental impacts are assessed, with advancements transferable to other renewable energies and marine engineering.
LEARN MOREEDUROVs promotes science education for teachers and students through a participatory approach to science, technology, and teamwork. By designing, building, and using underwater vehicles (ROVs), it drives innovation, hands-on learning, and stronger links between science and society, aiming to enhance scientific culture and technological education in the community.
LEARN MOREThis project develops tools to assess the health status of resident cetaceans in protected marine areas of the Canary Islands (Natura 2000 Network) using hormonal and immunological markers in skin biopsies. Results will evaluate ecosystem health and the impacts of climate change and pollution. It integrates oceanographic and pollutant data, advancing marine conservation and the One Health approach.
LEARN MOREBLUE UPGRADE is a strategic project for PLOCAN to enhance its offshore infrastructure and Ocean Observatory. It will improve safety, sustainability, and monitoring capabilities, ensuring operability under various weather conditions. The project positions PLOCAN as a global leader in marine technology and ocean observation, adapting its services to blue economy demands and fostering integration into international excellence networks.
LEARN MOREBrain2Power develops an intelligent system to monitor, control, and manage heterogeneous energy infrastructures in the marine environment. It serves as a testbed to validate business models for Virtual Power Plants (VPPs), focused on flexibility and local energy markets, integrating generation, storage, and chemical energy vectors.
LEARN MOREMarine Sensors – From the Classroom to the Conference (EduSen) promotes ocean literacy among secondary school students in Gran Canaria through practical activities such as sensor construction, data collection, and participation in a marine conference. With a participatory approach, it seeks to strengthen oceanographic knowledge, scientific skills, and pro-environmental attitudes, inspiring the conservation of marine resources.
LEARN MOREEmisiones y Sonidos Azules (EduBlue)” aims to raise awareness among secondary school students in Gran Canaria about marine ecosystem protection and renewable energy. Through an educational kit on floating wind devices and STEM activities, it fosters critical thinking and scientific research. The project will reach 15 schools, promoting sustainability and environmental education.
LEARN MOREThe Smart Coast 4.0 project will develop two product groups to enhance maritime safety using AI. QAISC AI MARITIME SAFETY will include solutions for visibility measurement, coastal dynamics, and port supervision, along with a visual monitoring application. QAISC AI GUARD will enable vessel detection and tracking through radar, thermal cameras, and satellite data for safer navigation.
LEARN MOREThe project aims to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into marine spatial planning and environmental assessment, optimizing marine resource management in the Canary Islands. It supports informed decision-making through advanced analysis of marine data, fostering a sustainable blue economy and offshore renewable energy expansion. Additionally, it promotes technical training and strategic collaboration.
LEARN MOREGeo-INQUIRE will enhance access to key data, products, and services for monitoring and modeling dynamic geosphere processes with greater detail and precision. It addresses cross-domain barriers (land-sea-atmosphere) using innovative data management, simulations, and AI methods. The project includes interoperable data infrastructure, 150 virtual and transnational access facilities, and training programs to foster multidisciplinary, cutting-edge research.
LEARN MOREIn order to improve its capacity to support R&D&I projects, the PLOCAN Consortium will make two key investments: installing a third submarine cable to expand the test bed’s electrical and communications infrastructure to meet the demand for offshore energy testing, and refurbishing the obsolete electrical infrastructure at its onshore headquarters.
LEARN MOREThis project enhances sustainable ocean observation through the acquisition of an advanced-instrumented glider. Aligned with PLOCAN’s strategy, it improves ocean data quality, fosters marine robotics, develops local talent, and strengthens public–private collaboration. It contributes to Blue Economy and climate adaptation, positioning the Canary Islands as a hub for scientific and technological innovation in support of sustainable development.
LEARN MOREMARINERG-i is a Distributed Research Infrastructure uniting EU Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) testing facilities to accelerate development and support the EU Green Deal targets. Led by Ireland, with support from several countries, MARINERG-i will strengthen innovation, scientific and engineering expertise, attract investments, and consolidate the ORE sector across Europe.
LEARN MOREATLANTIC WHALE DEAL will test innovative technologies to mitigate ship-whale collisions, fostering transnational cooperation. It will develop detection techniques, risk and acoustic pollution maps, and evaluate whales’ ecosystem services. The project aims to protect biodiversity and enhance ocean ecosystems with a long-term sustainable plan.
LEARN MOREThe AIRE consortium aims to enhance wind farm efficiency by incorporating real climate conditions, such as precipitation, sand, and high-altitude winds, into turbine design and operation. Using data from experimental and commercial sites, it will develop advanced models and tools to better predict energy output, operating costs, and design, reducing risks and boosting renewable energy investments.
LEARN MOREThe OCEAN CITIZEN project presents an innovative approach to marine restoration by combining conservation and restoration across three representative ecosystems (subtropical, tropical, and cold temperate). It introduces advanced techniques such as Integrated Multitrophic Aquaculture and Smart Enhanced Reefs, promotes the “gardeners of the sea” profession, and emphasizes citizen engagement, economic benefits, and long-term carbon sequestration.
LEARN MOREThe IMPULSA project aims to accelerate PLOCAN’s participation in European framework programs like Horizon Europe. It will enhance growth through new hires, specialized training, project management tools, increased presence in strategic networks and events, and partial outsourcing to boost proposal leadership. IMPULSA will optimize investment returns and generate impact on regional and national economic networks.
LEARN MOREOKEANO will provide support to the All-Atlantic Ocean Research and Innovation Alliance (AAORIA), enabling delivery on the goals of the All-Atlantic Declaration and empowering an All-Atlantic Ocean community to sustainably manage the Atlantic Ocean. With objectives that reflect the Alliance motto ‘Connecting-Cooperating-Acting’, OKEANO will serve to scale and transition the Alliance to a long-term, sustainable and highly impactful international partnership, capable of delivering transformative science and innovation, and concrete benefits for Atlantic communities.
LEARN MOREThe SHY project will develop a composite linear pump and a controller valve using seawater as the working fluid, optimizing energy capture in wave energy converters. The technology will be tested with the Wavepiston converter at PLOCAN, aiming to reduce the levelized cost of energy. Two generations of prototypes will be produced, designed for mass production and operational efficiency.
LEARN MOREICOS-Spain is part of the European ICOS-ERIC network, providing high-precision, long-term greenhouse gas monitoring. With six stations, it expands coverage to the subtropical Atlantic, Iberian Peninsula, and Mediterranean. It delivers essential data for climate action, scientific research, and sustainable transition, supporting international policies such as the Paris Agreement and contributing to global GHG monitoring efforts.
LEARN MORESiDis proposes an integrated system to optimize the scientific use and management of the ICTS MARHIS, incorporating Digital Twins, Low-Cost/DIY technologies, and simplified access programs. It aims to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and collaboration in marine hydraulic engineering infrastructures, promoting knowledge transfer and democratizing access to advanced scientific tools.
LEARN MOREThe GEORGE project, funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme (Grant Agreement ID: 101094716), aims to advance cutting-edge ocean observation technologies, with a particular focus on the marine carbon cycle.GEORGE seeks to strengthen European oceanography research infrastructures, including EMSO, Euro-Argo, and ICOS, by integrating advanced biogeochemical sensors into stationary, drifting, and mobile platforms. Core variables to be tracked include pH and dissolved carbon dioxide. Additional crucial parameters relate to understanding carbon fluxes and the impacts of ocean acidification
LEARN MOREThe WECHULL+ project aims to demonstrate (TRL4-6) a new sustainable, circular, and reliable concrete mix for floating substructures in the offshore renewable energy sector. At the European level, it will validate this innovative material through lab and ocean testing, offering a more cost-effective and durable alternative to steel and composites in harsh marine environments.
LEARN MOREThe UBAS project develops an unmanned marine monitoring system using an autonomous catamaran equipped with sensors for bathymetry, seabed inspection, and submerged object detection in port areas. It includes a remote control station and supports additional applications such as maritime surveillance, environmental monitoring, and small-scale logistics, with integration capabilities for existing port information systems.
LEARN MOREThe WHEEL project aims to demonstrate and bring to a pre-commercial level an innovative floating wind technology for deep waters. By designing, installing, and testing a 6MW pilot unit at PLOCAN (Canary Islands), it will validate its advantages in cost and carbon footprint reduction. A European consortium of experts leads this development to drive commercialization.
LEARN MOREThe TRIDENT project aims to ensure the sustainable exploitation of seabed mineral resources through a reliable and cost-effective system for predicting and continuously monitoring environmental impacts. It will develop autonomous technologies to operate in extreme conditions and provide real-time data to authorities. Additionally, it will define key environmental parameters, enhance existing datasets, and test observatory platforms with advanced sensors.
LEARN MOREAoffTech promotes floating offshore wind energy to support decarbonisation, EU energy independence, and climate action. Through public-private collaboration, it connects technological developments, fosters shared strategies in the Atlantic Area, and strengthens educational networks. The project balances technological, ecological, and social perspectives, requiring transnational cooperation.
LEARN MOREHiPoTeSis aims to establish Europe—particularly the Atlantic region—as a leader in high-power floating wind technology. It proposes a transnational testing infrastructure with shared governance, a consolidated European partnership, and joint solutions to site-specific challenges. The project supports innovation and long-term growth of this emerging sector by strengthening technical capacity and territorial benefits.
LEARN MOREUPWELLING boosts the Atlantic Area’s blue economy by creating a transnational network and the UPWELLING Academy, offering training in emerging marine technologies and prototyping activities. It improves access to infrastructure, fosters regional cooperation, and supports SMEs and startups. The initiative promotes talent development and marine resource integration across Spain, Ireland, Portugal, and France.
LEARN MOREAQUARIUS will provide an integrated suite of 57 research infrastructures to address challenges in the sustainability of oceans, seas, and freshwater ecosystems. It will facilitate access for researchers and stakeholders, supporting initiatives like the EU Mission to Restore Oceans and the European Green Deal. Projects will focus on biodiversity, pollution elimination, and a sustainable, carbon-neutral blue economy.
LEARN MORESince the launch of the ESFRI program, Marine Research Infrastructures (MRIs) have progressed in marine observation but lack coordination, limiting their efficiency and increasing costs. The AMRIT project aims to enhance data integration, sensor management, platform complementarity, and consistent EOV observations, optimizing costs and targeting a net-zero carbon ocean capability.
LEARN MOREATLAS uses Distributed Acoustic Sensing on submarine cables to revolutionize ocean monitoring. It addresses coastal risks, marine noise pollution, and whale-ship collisions. Outcomes support marine conservation, policy-making, and maritime safety. Through international cooperation and deployments across the Atlantic, ATLAS sets a new sustainable standard aligned with EU environmental directives for long-term ocean protection and risk prevention.
LEARN MOREThe H2Heat project aims to demonstrate the full value chain for green hydrogen heating in commercial buildings, starting with the CHUIMI hospital in Gran Canaria. Using offshore wind energy from the WHEEL project, a 1MW electrolyser will produce hydrogen to replace conventional fuels with advanced burners and heat pumps. The goal is to replicate this model in other hospitals and support a hydrogen-based economy in the region.
LEARN MOREThe RISEnergy project fosters a European ecosystem to develop innovative and efficient energy technologies aligned with the Green Deal goals. With a consortium of 69 partners across 23 countries, it offers transnational access to leading facilities, promotes renewables in energy systems, and delivers comprehensive services in areas such as PV, hydrogen, biofuels, ocean energy, and storage.
LEARN MOREThe MAGEHC project investigates how semi-static mesoscale eddies and submesoscale processes affect hydrography, plankton dynamics, and the Biological Carbon Pump in the Canary Islands. Using gliders, satellite data, and regional modelling, it explores physical–biogeochemical interactions to improve understanding of ocean productivity and carbon sequestration in eastern boundary current systems.
LEARN MOREOcean Gardens promotes large-scale offshore seaweed farming as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Demonstration in Gran Canaria and other regions will test innovative techniques and native species polycultures. The project will assess ecological benefits, commercial viability, and scalability, while engaging in public outreach, technical training, and regulatory analysis across Europe to support a sustainable and just transition.
LEARN MOREThe Macaronesian Marine-Maritime Alliance (A3M) promotes sustainable development and the internationalization of SMEs in MAC territories. Led by the CCIA since 2023, A3MAtlantic fosters blue policies, innovation, training, and access to international markets, strengthening the region’s strategic positioning in Europe and advancing the blue economy through multi-level collaboration.
LEARN MOREThe ACUICONECTA project links aquaculture research in Azores, Canary Islands, Madeira, and Atlantic African countries. It seeks innovative solutions for common challenges, promoting sustainable aquaculture, knowledge transfer, and regional cooperation. It strengthens connections between research, industry, and society, prioritizing advanced technologies and shared resource use.
LEARN MORECIRCULAROCEAN promotes the transition of marine litter to a circular economy in the mid- eastern Atlantic. Coordinated by the Canary Islands Government, it involves regions like Azores, Madeira, and West African countries, developing sustainable strategies through knowledge transfer, pilot actions, waste management technologies, circular business models, and prevention in tourism, fishing, and ports, promoting recycling and valorization.
LEARN MOREThe REDBEAM project aims to create a distributed Hub for testing and validating emerging ocean technologies in Macaronesia and West Africa. It promotes marine innovation, boosts the regional blue economy, fosters public-private cooperation, and enhances the international visibility of local marine-maritime businesses.
LEARN MOREThe DIVE project transforms STEM education by promoting social inclusion and increasing student engagement. It develops an innovative curriculum focused on underwater robotics and marine science, trains 260 teachers in interdisciplinary methods, and impacts 4,000 students in multicultural schools across Spain, Greece, and Portugal, fostering more inclusive and effective STEM teaching.
LEARN MORECIDIHUB strengthens its role in the Canary Islands during the second phase of the EDIH initiative, with a strategic focus on Artificial Intelligence. It will support SMEs and the public sector through AI services, digital training, and links to key EU infrastructures, aiming to position the region as a European hub for sustainable, inclusive, and human-centric AI deployment.
LEARN MOREThe SECURE2 project implements the European Framework for Research Careers (RCF) to enhance career progression and mobility in research organizations. Building on the prior SECURE project, it promotes institutional change through best-practice tools and collaboration among researchers and administrators, fostering inclusive research ecosystems across academic and non-academic sectors.
LEARN MOREThe PHAROS project bridges the EU Ocean Mission’s development and piloting phase (2025) with its deployment and upscaling phase (2026-2030). It features Atlantic demos using nature-based solutions and IMTA, enhances biodiversity, manages invasive species, and fosters learning networks and engagement through living labs and educational programs.
LEARN MOREThe BLUEACTION-AA project empowers communities across the Atlantic and Arctic to restore marine and freshwater ecosystems. Through grants, technical assistance, and capacity building, it supports sustainable local initiatives aligned with the EU Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters by 2030,” promoting community engagement and innovative, long-term solutions for ecosystem restoration and protection.
LEARN MOREGyrovago investigates the variability of the Eastern North Atlantic Subtropical Gyre (ENASG), critical for heat transport and biogeochemical cycles, and its impact on marine dynamics, carbon cycle, zooplankton, micronecton, and microplastics. Using oceanographic campaigns and long-term data, it aims to understand the physical and biogeochemical processes shaping this ecosystem and its role in the global carbon cycle under climate change conditions.
LEARN MOREThe DESALIFE project aims to validate and demonstrate the feasibility of an innovative wave-powered desalination buoy, providing an efficient and zero-emission alternative to onshore desalination plants. Four full-scale buoys will be tested in the Canary Islands, producing 1.66 million m³ of emission-free freshwater. By 2050, 890 buoys are expected to supply 3.48 million people, significantly reducing CO₂ emissions and operational costs.
LEARN MOREThe Restore our Coasts project tackles coastal restoration and resilience through innovative nature-based solutions such as coral reef reintroduction and seagrass and mangrove restoration. A multidisciplinary approach integrates numerical models, economic analysis, and community collaboration in over 14 countries, fostering sustainable and replicable practices beyond the project’s lifespan.
LEARN MOREThe Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership (SBEP) aims to drive a just and inclusive transition towards a sustainable, regenerative, and resilient blue economy in the EU by 2030. It will align R&I priorities across national, regional, and EU levels, promoting ocean knowledge, international cooperation, and digitalization. With 59 partners from 25 countries, it will launch six funding calls and foster innovation and governance in the blue economy.
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