All research departments at the IREC have been awarded the SGR-2025 distinction, recognising their research excellence and contribution to the Catalan research and innovation system.

The distinction is part of the SGR-Cat 2025 funding programme, awarded by AGAUR and funded by the Department of Research and Universities of the Government of Catalonia. The programme aims to strengthen Catalonia’s research and innovation system, enhance its scientific, economic and social impact, and increase its international visibility.

The IREC research departments recognised in the SGR-Cat 2025 call are:

• Advanced Sensors and Optoelectronics (SEMS-MNT) | 2025 SGR 01488. Led by Prof. Alejandro Pérez-Rodríguez, Head of the Solar Energy Materials and Systems Department. This is an interinstitutional group formed by IREC and the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya (UPC).
• Nanoionics and Solid State Energy Devices (NANOEN) | 2025 SGR 01019. Led by Albert Tarancón, ICREA Professor and Head of the Nanoionics and Fuel Cells Department.
• Materials for Energy (M4E) | 2025 SGR 00198. Led by Andreu Cabot, ICREA Professor and Head of the Functional Nanomaterials Department.
• Power Systems (PS) | 2025 SGR 00899. Led by Dr José Luis Domínguez, Head of the Power Systems Department.
• Energy Systems Analytics (ESA) | 2025 SGR 00956. Led by Dr Gabriela Benveniste, Deputy Head of the Energy Systems Analytics Department.
• Climate Neutral and Resilient Buildings and Communities (REACT) | 2025 SGR 01193. Led by Dr Joana Ortiz, Deputy Head of the REACT Department.

The funding scheme is aligned with the priorities set out in the Government’s Pla Catalunya Lidera and the Department of Research and Universities’ Action Plan. Both strategies identify an excellent university and research system as a key driver of transformation, knowledge creation and innovation, and as a cornerstone of the country’s progress.

This recognition highlights the breadth and strength of IREC’s research activities across key areas of the energy transition, from advanced materials and energy devices to power systems, data analytics and sustainable buildings and communities

This mention is valid from January 2026 to December 2028.

Acknowledgements: With the support of Departament de Recerca i Universitats from Generalitat de Catalunya.