We are thrilled to officially introduce SUSTENET (CA24120), the Sustainable Thermoelectrics European Network. This initiative, supported by the COST Association (European Cooperation in Science and Technology, see the links at the bottom of each page in this website), marks a pivotal step toward a more sustainable, decarbonized, and energy-independent Europe.
At a time when energy efficiency is no longer an option but a global necessity, SUSTENET arrives to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and industrial application.
Why Thermoelectrics?
Energy loss is one of the greatest challenges of our modern infrastructure. Huge amounts of energy are dissipated as “waste heat” in industrial processes, transportation, and electronic devices. Thermoelectric technologies offer a transformative solution for waste heat recovery, and for other challenges:
- Waste Heat Recovery: Directly converting heat into usable electricity.
- Solid-State Cooling: Providing precise, refrigerant-free heating and cooling.
- Decarbonization: Reducing reliance on fossil fuels by maximizing the utility of every kilowatt-hour generated.
By integrating these technologies into the European energy landscape, we can significantly boost efficiency and move closer to achieving the ambitious goals of the European Green Deal.
Our Journey Begins: The Brussels Kick-Off
The SUSTENET story officially began on 24th October 2025 in the COST Association offices, in Brussels. The kick-off meeting brought together a diverse group of visionary researchers, engineers, and industry partners from across the continent.
The energy in the room was palpable as we laid the groundwork for our mission: to strengthen the entire European thermoelectric value chain. From new sustainable materials to developing scalable manufacturing processes, SUSTENET is designed to be the collaborative engine driving these innovations to market.
The Action will have a duration of four years and will organise activities, including grants for researchers, and events, to foster the growth of sustainable thermoelectrics.
The Action Chair is Dr Filipe Neves, of the Laboratório Nacional de Energia e Geologia (Portugal). You can find the responsibles of the various topics in the “Structure” page.
Join the Movement
SUSTENET is more than just a project (an Action, in COST’s framework); it is a community. We believe that the transition to clean energy requires a collective effort, merging the brilliance of academia with the practical expertise of industry.
Together, we are building a greener future.
We invite you to be a part of this journey. Whether you are a researcher, an industry stakeholder, or a policy advocate, your expertise can help shape the future of European energy.
- Explore our mission: Visit our COST Action Page
- Get Involved: Learn how you can apply to join our Working Groups and contribute to the network.
Follow us here for regular updates on our progress, upcoming events, and breakthroughs in the world of thermoelectrics.
