The TERA‑Award 2026 programme has widened its international reach with two new strategic partnerships aimed at accelerating climate‑focused energy innovation.
The latest collaborators are the United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL).
Launched in 2021 by Dr Peter Lee Ka‑kit, the TERA‑Award was created to drive climate action through advanced energy technologies. It has since developed into a global acceleration platform, combining prize funding with real‑world application pathways and industry support. Nearly 2,000 projects from 76 countries have taken part to date.
The addition of UNCTAD and CISL marks a significant milestone. UNCTAD will apply its global policy expertise and cross‑regional industrial networks to help connect programme outcomes with international markets. CISL will contribute its research strengths in climate and energy innovation, strengthening the evaluation process to identify projects with strong scientific and commercial potential.
Alan Chan Ying‑lung, Executive Chairman of the organising committee, said: “UNCTAD, CISL, and the TERA-Award programme share a strong commitment to advancing technological innovation as a solution to climate challenges. By collaborating with international organisations and governments worldwide, I look forward to accelerating the real-world deployment of TERA-Award projects and delivering practical technology pathways for the global energy transition and climate action.”
The 2026 edition introduces two new categories –AI × Energy and Next‑Generation Energy–alongside the existing four core areas of Green Fuels & Hydrogen Energy; Energy Storage & Conversion; Energy Saving & Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS); and Smart Energy System. This year’s prize pool totals US$1.15 million, with applications open until late April.
Roadshows will take place across the UK, Europe, Singapore and Beijing to engage innovators and outline collaboration opportunities. Applications are invited here.
