In September 2021, the Italian Government in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is launching a call for pilot projects that will provide an opportunity to gain on-the-ground insights, test new approaches and disseminate learnings that will feed into the International Energy Agency (IEA)’s “Digital Demand-Driven Electricity Networks (3DEN)” Initiative, which is a 4-year cross-agency initiative focusing on the policy, regulatory, technology and investment context needed to accelerate progress on power system modernisation and effective utilisation of demand-side resources. The project has a global focus, with initial priorities being Brazil, Colombia, Morocco, Tunisia, India, Indonesia and South Africa. Building on analysis, case studies and experiences worldwide, the IEA will develop tools and guidance drawing upon research from across the IEA and engage with relevant organisations, bringing together stakeholders to foster dialogue and experience sharing. Based on UNEP's track record in pilot implementation, UNEP will be the executing agency for the realisation of the pilot projects.