The SAPI Renewable Energy Cluster was established in 2019 as a startup cluster with a focus on expanding and linking knowledge and experience on the use of renewable energy. The cluster is an interest association of legal entities, which currently has more than 120 active members - business entities operating in the RES sector and several partners of state administration and public administration and research, development, and educational institutions. The activities of the cluster follow on from the activities of the Slovak Association of Photovoltaic Industry and RES (SAPI), which was founded in 2010 as an interest association representing the photovoltaic and RES industries.
The main mission of the cluster is to create an effective platform to connect members of the energy sector, improve communication and cooperation of members and partners of the cluster with a focus on the renewable energy sector. The members of the cluster include the SAPI members, the business sphere operating in the field of RES, as well as public administration. The role of the cluster is to provide these partners with an effective tool for mutual communication and cooperation in the implementation of projects and the implementation of innovative technological solutions in renewable energy. The cluster connects domestic and foreign organizations and expert partners with a relevant focus on individual projects, innovative RES technologies and solutions in the renewable energy sector.
Developing the innovative capabilities of members and partners is of the utmost importance to SAPI Renewable Energy. Linking research, educational institutions and SMEs can bring many benefits to both sides. By using innovative technologies, SMEs can create new business opportunities outside their current markets. On the other hand, research and educational institutions can gain partners to support or co-finance their research and development activities.