Reflecting on the ESEIA International Summer School 2024: Advancing Net Zero Solutions
The ESEIA International Summer School 2024, held online from 16-27 September 2024, concluded successfully, leaving participants with an in-depth understanding of net-zero solutions for climate-friendly energy production. Organized in collaboration with Savonia University of Applied Sciences and the North Savo Energy Cluster, the event gathered 20 international students and professionals, all eager to explore pathways to carbon neutrality.
Focus on Net Zero Solutions
Participants were immersed in various topics designed to equip them with the knowledge necessary to tackle today’s energy challenges. The curriculum focused on:
- Clean Energy Production: A detailed examination of renewable technologies that can contribute to achieving net-zero emissions.
- Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS): Exploring how carbon can be captured and used to reduce atmospheric emissions.
- Synthetic Fuel Production: Investigating innovative methods to create alternative, sustainable fuels.
- Energy-Efficient Building Technologies: Strategies for enhancing energy efficiency in the built environment.
- Decarbonizing Mobility: Addressing the challenges of creating low-emission transportation systems.
Hands-On Learning
Participants engaged in supervised project work and collaborated to create project plans addressing the transition to net-zero emissions. They received feedback from experts and had the opportunity to present their findings in final peer-reviewed sessions.
Throughout the two-week program, company presentations highlighted real-world applications of the technologies discussed in the course, offering participants valuable industry insights. By the end of the course, students had drafted research proposals, some suitable for future Horizon Europe and Interreg funding calls.
Positive Feedback from Participants
The feedback from the attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Many participants appreciated the comprehensive structure of the program, which allowed them to develop practical skills while engaging with cutting-edge topics. One participant remarked: “The program exceeded my expectations by not only providing theoretical knowledge but also giving us hands-on project work that will be invaluable in my professional life.”
Looking Ahead: Empowering Future Energy Leaders
As a significant outcome of the summer school, students created excellent project proposals that will now be further developed for Horizon Europe funding. The program fostered an international network of professionals and students, promoting collaboration that extends beyond the summer school.
In the words of the organizing team: “We are proud to state that as a result of the ESEIA International Summer School 2024, students have created strong energy project proposals that will proceed in collaboration with willing organizations toward final planning stages for relevant calls.”
The ESEIA International Summer School 2024 has not only empowered future leaders in the energy field but also contributed to the broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions through innovation and collaboration.
Contact: office@eseia.eu
