Overview
Enel has launched an international challenge titled WinDesign to revolutionize the aesthetic and functional design of wind turbines. This two-phase competition invites innovative solutions that merge cutting-edge technology, environmental sustainability, and visual harmony with the surrounding landscape. The challenge is hosted on the Enel Open Innovability® platform and is open to individuals and teams worldwide.
Deadline: 16 June 2025
Location: Global
First Prize: €250,000
Why You Should Participate in WinDesign
This is a rare opportunity to be at the forefront of reshaping renewable energy infrastructure. Participants can:
- Develop solutions with a real-world impact on renewable energy aesthetics and performance.
- Gain recognition from a global sustainability leader like Enel.
- Receive monetary rewards of up to €250,000 for the best ideas.
- Advance through a two-phase selection process, gaining valuable design experience.
- Contribute directly to sustainable development goals (SDGs) such as clean energy, innovation, and climate action.
The challenge not only rewards creativity and technical brilliance but also encourages a balance between energy production and visual harmony, opening new avenues for architects, designers, and engineers to collaborate.
Key Highlights
- Eligibility: Open to individuals and entities worldwide. Teams may consist of up to three members. Enel Group employees are not eligible.
- Categories: All entries must focus on aesthetic, functional, and sustainable design for wind turbines.
- Phases:
- Phase 1: Submit your conceptual idea.
- Phase 2: Shortlisted participants submit detailed design documents.
- Design Objectives:
- Enhance environmental and landscape integration (low visual/acoustic impact).
- Ensure technical and functional feasibility equivalent to market standards.
- Be adaptable across turbine suppliers.
- Maintain cost-effectiveness without compromising quality.
Entry Fees
There are no entry fees required to participate in the Enel WinDesign Challenge.
Prizes and Recognition
| Award Category | Prize Amount |
|---|---|
| First Prize | €250,000 |
| Second Prize | €150,000 |
| Third Prize | €50,000 |
| Design Special Prize | €15,000 |
| Technical & Economic Feasibility | €15,000 |
| Innovation & Sustainability | €15,000 |
| Phase 1 Reward (each admitted participant) | €5,000 |
Winners will also gain exposure and recognition across Enel’s platforms, furthering their credibility and career opportunities in sustainable innovation.
Submission Details
Participants must submit their WinDesign proposals through the Open Innovability® platform.
For Phase 1:
- Submit conceptual designs with clear descriptions.
- Upload up to 5 documents (ZIP, JPG, PDF), max 35MB total.
- External document links are allowed but must remain valid through the evaluation period.
For Phase 2:
- Selected participants must submit complete technical drawings and documentation based on Enel’s detailed specifications.
All submissions must clearly explain the design’s benefits in terms of integration, feasibility, adaptability, and sustainability. Intellectual property rights for winning entries will be transferred to Enel.
Important Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Phase 1 Submission Deadline | 16 June 2025 |
| Phase 2 Launch | 1 July 2025 |
| Phase 2 Submission Deadline | 29 September 2025 |
| Results Announcement | Post Phase 2 Review |
Note: Dates may be subject to extension.
How to Join WinDesign
- Visit the official Enel Open Innovability® platform.
- Register an account or log in.
- Read the full “Regulations” and technical documents carefully.
- Prepare and submit your Phase 1 proposal via the platform.
- If selected, proceed to submit the full design for Phase 2.
Judging Criteria
Submissions will be assessed by internal experts and a final jury based on:
- Innovation: Uniqueness and creativity of the idea.
- Aesthetic Integration: Visual harmony with landscapes.
- Technical Feasibility: Alignment with existing performance standards.
- Economic Viability: Cost-effective production and maintenance.
- Sustainability: Environmental impact and long-term value.
Feedback will be provided to all participants. Winners will undergo a pre-rewarding process including submission of required documents. Enel retains the right to award or withhold prizes based on evaluation compliance.
