NOVA IMS is leading the ENCOMPASS project – ENergy COmplexity Mapping for Pathways to Advance Sustainable Systems – addressing the urgent challenge of advancing sustainable energy systems. Supported by the NOVA Interdisciplinary Research Community (NIRC) on Sustainable Energy Systems and funded by Galp, the project is set to transform the renewable energy landscape in Iberia.

Aligned with the European Union’s Net-Zero Industry Act, ENCOMPASS focuses on mapping the renewable energy value chain in Iberia. This initiative supports the EU’s goal to ensure that by 2030, at least 40% of annual deployment needs for strategic net-zero technologies are met domestically.

Using advanced economic complexity methodologies, the project integrates data from patents, industry statistics, trade flows, and economic and demographic indicators. This approach will help identify Iberia’s unique capabilities, technological pathways, and industrial strengths in the renewable energy sector.

Led by a multidisciplinary team of experts – Prof. Ian Scott and Prof. Flávio Pinheiro from NOVA IMS (MagIC) and Prof. António Vicente from NOVA FCT (CENIMAT I3N, CEMOP) – the project combines expertise in data science, economic complexity, and renewable energy materials.

ENCOMPASS is designed to deliver actionable insights and data-driven policy recommendations, providing a strategic foundation for policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers. By doing so, it aims to advance clean technology leadership, support energy independence, and position Iberia as a key player in the EU’s sustainable energy transition.