Iren

Open Innovation

Reggio Emilia, Italy

About Iren

Italian multi-utility formed in 2010, covering electricity, gas, district heating, integrated water services, waste and technology services; legal seat in Reggio Emilia, around 12,000 employees.

How Iren works with startups

Iren’s Open Innovation model connects its business teams with startups, universities and research organisations. Its Innovation Directorate coordinates a network used for feasibility studies, technology scouting and proofs of concept. Startup engagement also includes the Iren Startup Award and a separate corporate venture capital programme. Teams with an innovative product, service or research proposal can contact Iren’s innovation team to explore a collaboration.

Source: www.gruppoiren.it

Areas of interest

Resilient, flexible, and low-emission infrastructure
Treatment of PFAS and emerging pollutants. Monitoring contaminants in water.
Resilience of the power grid. Anticipate and quickly identify faults.
Energy flexibility. Business models and initial offers to customers.
Decarbonization of district heating. Deep geothermal and thermal prosumers. New industrial chains and business opportunities.
Hydrogen and derived products.
Recovery of critical raw materials.
CO₂ capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS).
Robotics and automation, applications in waste collection and treatment plants. Generative AI for staff and customer care.
Pre-localization of leaks and faults.
Digital Twin and AI for asset management.

Open calls

IREN Startup Award 2026, https://www.circulareconomylab.it/content/circularEconomy/it/news/IrenStartupAward2026.html

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