1. CONTEXT AND CHALLENGE DESCRIPTION

The implementation of new electric power substations involves a series of critical steps for the projects to become operational within the planned timelines. In this context, the substation plays a central role, being composed of various systems and structures essential for its safe and reliable operation.

Among these elements, the control house is a critical item, as it houses command, protection, control, and auxiliary service systems, being indispensable for the start-up of the project.

Currently, the average execution time for control houses is around 9 months, which may vary according to the construction model adopted, the logistics involved, and the execution conditions in the field.

In light of this scenario, AXIA Energia launches this challenge with the aim of identifying existing construction solutions or those with a high level of proven maturity, capable of significantly reducing execution time, increasing schedule predictability, and reducing operational, logistical, and safety risks.

This challenge focuses on applied innovation. It is not an initial research or technological development challenge, but rather the evaluation and implementation of solutions that are ready or almost ready for use in a real environment.

2. TECHNOLOGICAL MATURITY REQUIRED FOR THIS CHALLENGE (TRL)

Minimum technology readiness level: TRL 7.

Only solutions that meet the following are eligible:
– TRL 7: System demonstrated in relevant operational environment
– TRL 8: Complete and qualified system in a real environment
– TRL 9: System proven in commercial operation

Solutions at TRL 6 or lower, including concepts, experimental prototypes, basic R&D, or proof of concepts, will not be eligible.

The solution must be ready for deployment in the short term, have real evidence of application (cases, executed projects, clients, or completed pilots), and demonstrate potential for replication and scalability.

3. SOLUTION REQUIREMENTS

Functional requirements:
– Fully meet the function of substation control house;
– Allow installation of control systems, protection, panels, and cables;
– Reduce critical activities carried out in the field;
– Allow application in different typologies and locations.

Technical requirements:
– Comply with the technical and safety standards of the electrical sector;
– Exhibit structural robustness and operational reliability;
– Reduce dependence on specialized labor;
- Mitigate climate and logistical risks;
– Be scalable and compatible with usual hiring models.

4. POSSIBLE TECHNOLOGIES

– Modular or industrialized construction;
- Consolidated hybrid construction systems;
- Light or metal prefabrication;
– Mature construction methodologies applied to infrastructure;
– Proven logistical innovations;
– Technologies that reduce people's exposure to risk.

AXIA Energia strongly encourages innovative solutions and is not limited to the technologies mentioned.

5. EXPECTED IMPACTS FOR THE BUSINESS

– Reduction of the substation implementation deadline;
- Greater predictability of schedules;
– Reduction of direct and indirect costs;
– Mitigation of operational and safety risks;
– Standardization of solutions applicable at scale.

6. EXPECTED BENEFITS

– Gains in operational efficiency;
- Reduction of critical field activities;
– Less dependence on external factors;
– Improvement of safety indicators;
– Consolidation of strategic partnerships with mature solutions.

7. MACRO SCHEDULE OF THE CHALLENGE

Registrations: until 05/15/2026
Reverse pitch: 05/18/2026
Proposal preparation: until 05/22/2026
Selection result – 1st level: 05/27/2026
Pitch of the selected solutions: 05/29/2026
Final selection result – partner choice: 06/02/2026
Start of immersion: 06/04/2026

8. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SOLUTIONS

For participation in this challenge, only proposals that fully meet the criteria below will be considered:

Technology Readiness Level (TRL)

The solution must have a minimum TRL of 7, preferably TRL 8 or 9, as defined below:

- TRL 7: System/product demonstrated in a relevant operational environment.

– TRL 8: Complete and qualified system in a real environment.

– TRL 9: System proven in commercial operation.

Solutions at TRL 6 or lower (concept, experimental prototype, basic R&D, or proof of concept) will not be eligible.

Deployment Readiness

The solution should:

- Be ready for short-term implementation;

– Not to depend on long cycles of technological development;

– Be applicable in a real electrical infrastructure environment, with low need for structural customizations.

Mandatory Evidence

Proponents must provide objective evidence of maturity, such as:

– Projects executed or in operation;

– Documented case studies;

– Technical references or clients;

– Photographic records, technical records, or implementation reports;

– Proof of performance in the field.

Scalability and Replicability

The solution must demonstrate potential to:

– Replication in multiple ventures;

- Application in different geographical contexts;

– Compatibility with industry-standard production and hiring models.

Adherence to the Electric Sector

– Compliance with applicable technical and safety standards;

- Structural robustness and operational reliability;

– Redução de riscos operacionais, logísticos e de segurança.

Important

This challenge does not include:

– Academic projects;

– Scientific research without practical validation;

– Technological development from scratch;

- Solutions without a proven history of application.

The focus of Power Up is applied innovation, with a high level of maturity, oriented towards real implementation and short-term value generation.