EirGrid launches fourth annual CleanerGrid competition for third-level students with €12,000 top prize 

EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland’s electricity grid, is calling on third-level students across Ireland to submit applications for the fourth annual CleanerGrid competition, with a top prize of €12,000 (€6,000 for the winning student team and €6,000 for the student’s third-level institute).  

CleanerGrid aims to foster innovation and creativity by encouraging students to showcase their skills in creating innovative solutions for Ireland’s clean energy transition. 

This year's theme "Powering Up the Energy Citizen", asks students to consider how a transmission system operator, like EirGrid, can support citizens, communities and new consumer technologies to deliver a reliable, affordable and decarbonised electricity system, addressing both the opportunities and the obstacles ahead. 

As smart meters, electric vehicles, heat pumps, rooftop solar, battery storage and flexible tariffs become more common, citizens will play an active role in how and when electricity is used. This shift is transforming the public into more active participants in the energy system, creating new opportunities and a need for greater collaboration and engagement. 

Submissions may reflect each student’s discipline or interests, whether in engineering, policy, economics, environmental science, data, or another field, and should offer fresh, actionable ideas that contribute meaningfully to Ireland’s clean energy future.    

The competition is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students, below PhD level, from all disciplines at any third-level institution in the Republic of Ireland. Students can register as individuals or as part of a team of up to six members, and interdisciplinary teams are welcome.  

Applications open on 22nd of September, and details are available at EirGrid.ie/CleanerGrid.   

Following assessment of all submissions, the top entrants will be invited to EirGrid’s head office to present their innovations to industry experts, including members of the EirGrid senior management team.   

In 2026, thirty-three submissions representing 115 students across nine higher level institutions submitted their projects to the competition.   

Welcoming the launch of the competition, 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."
 
Finalists will receive cash prizes for both them and their third-level institute with first-place winner receiving a €6,000 cash prize (+€6,000 for their third-level institute), €3,000 (+€3,000 for their third-level institute) for second place and €1,500 (+€1,500 for their third-level institute), for third place.  

Aspiring applicants have until 6th November 2026 to submit their application forms. To register, visit www.eirgrid.ie/cleanergrid