The European Union (EU) is committed to an ambitious green transition, targeting a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050. This agenda represents a new industrial strategy focused on developing supply chains for low-carbon technologies (LCTs) and enhancing the EU’s global competitiveness.

However, in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), the green transition is often perceived as a costly obligation rather than a strategic economic opportunity. CEE countries face significant challenges which limits entry into new value chains such as weak cooperation between climate and economic policies as well as fragmented collaboration between government, industry, and civil society, impedes progress.

Despite these challenges, the rising international demand for LCTs within Europe, and overreliance on imported technologies, represents a significant opportunity for CEE countries. By aligning climate and economic development strategies, these countries can transition from technology adopters to producers and exporters.

This project employs a data-driven, multi-actor strategy to identify market opportunities and redirect CEE economies towards climate-friendly, export-led growth trajectories, ultimately strengthening both national prosperity and the EU’s overall economic resilience.

The project aims to speed up the EU’s energy transition with a focus on Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) through a science-led, multi-actor approach. It will create data-driven roadmaps to boost low-carbon technology (LCT) exports and strengthen economic resilience. Drawing on Germany’s experience, the project seeks to improve the synergy between climate and economic policies in CEE countries. It involves key stakeholders, including industry, policymakers, civil society, and grassroots groups, ensuring the project’s outputs are practical and lead to real change.

The initiative includes scenario-building, knowledge exchange, and collaboration to identify promising product and market opportunities, driving informed decision-making. The project also emphasises cross-country collaboration, aiming to reinforce EU economic resilience and green growth. It will support the implementation of the Net Zero Industry Act and Green Deal Industrial Plan, helping countries develop sustainable economies. By addressing challenges in the green transition and capitalising on international demand for low-carbon technologies, the project aims to position CEE countries as leaders in climate-friendly growth and innovation.