← All measuresMeasures / Net-Zero Industry Act
Entitlement · SME-01

SMEs and start-ups get priority access to net-zero regulatory sandboxes, plus a dedicated communication channel and administrative support to take part.

SMEs and start-ups developing innovative net-zero technologies are given a right, and this is law in force.

Why it matters

This is law in force, not a proposal.

  • It is Art. 34(1)(a), in the Net-Zero Industry Act. as of 2026-08-18
  • The act gives its timing as: Applies from 29 June 2024 (Art. 49(2)). as of 2026-08-18
  • It names 4 industries by name: Batteries and solar, Clean tech, Carbon capture and storage and Power. as of 2026-08-18
  • Compliance is checked by competent authority, per project. as of 2026-08-18
Addressee SMEs and start-ups developing innovative net-zero technologiesAct Regulation (EU) 2024/1735, consolidated 17.08.2025Article Art. 34(1)(a)Class Businesses

The rule

New — no predecessor
Trigger

an SME or start-up meeting the Art. 33 eligibility conditions

Entitlement

SMEs and start-ups get priority access to net-zero regulatory sandboxes, plus a dedicated communication channel and administrative support to take part.

Who is affected

Addressee
SMEs and start-ups developing innovative net-zero technologies
Class
Businesses
Sectors
Names Batteries and solar, Wind, heat pumps, hydrogen, Carbon capture and fuels, Power and heat
Applies
Applies from 29 June 2024 (Art. 49(2))

Burden drivers

No burden drivers recorded on this provision.

Source text

Verbatim

provide SMEs and start-ups with priority access to the net-zero regulatory sandboxes to the extent that they fulfil the eligibility conditions laid down in Article 33;

View source →