Supplying advanced computing services and research laboratories with renewable hydroelectric energy recognised as a good practice in sustainable innovation

The University of Udine and Cafc SpA won the first prize in the 2025 “FVGreen for Sustainable Development” awards, in the Water Resources Sector – Companies and Start-ups Section, with their project “Water that powers the future”. Established by the Region to promote the best experiences in the environmental, economic and social fields, the award recognises organisations that have distinguished themselves for innovation, environmental impact and benefits to the community. The award ceremony took place on Saturday 8 November at the Teatro Verdi in Trieste. Gian Luca Foresti, scientific coordinator of the interdepartmental strategic plan on artificial intelligence, and Giuseppe Cabras, official of the Department of Science, Mathematics, Computer Science and Physics, were present on behalf of the university.
The award-winning project involves the use of CAFC SpA’s Ancona mini-hydroelectric power plant to directly supply the electricity needed to run advanced computing services for the University’s research laboratories. This innovative initiative combines environmental sustainability, energy efficiency and advanced research.