In this area, the objective is to improve the competitiveness of European industry and ensure its transformation from a resource-intensive to a knowledge-intensive industry.

To achieve this objective, two types of approach are envisaged:

• the short-term approach is to focus on the convergence of knowledge and skills;
• in the long term, the aim is to capitalise on the prospects offered by nanosciences and nanotechnologies for the creation of a knowledge-based industry and economy

In terms of activities, priority will be given to the interdisciplinary development of new products and materials and new processes and techniques.

The budget allocated to this them will be EUR 3 475 million.

Energy

The main objective of this theme will be to transform the current fossil-fuel based energy system into a sustainable, diversified and cost-effective system able to address pressing challenges (security of supply, climate change, competitiveness).

Where the approach is concerned, research will therefore focus on the development of cost-effective technologies for a more sustainable and competitive energy economy for Europe.

The practical applications are as follows:

• implementation of the hydrogen and fuel cells programme;
• development of technologies for electricity production from renewables;
• development of technologies for renewable fuel production;
• optimum use of renewables for heating and cooling;
• CO2 capture and storage technologies;
• development of clean coal technologies;
• development of smart energy networks (to increase efficiency, flexibility, safety and reliability);
• greater energy efficiency;
• use of knowledge for energy policy-making.

The budget allocated to this them will be EUR 2 350 million.