Tackling the ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions is a challenge that calls for global binding commitment, new innovative climate technologies, and above all skilled workforce in the new emerging green industries.
EIT InnoEnergy, through its Skills Institute, has been a driving force in this mission, evidenced by the success of the European Battery Academy, mandated by the European Commission. Building on this example, the European Solar Academy emerges as a significant next step in upskilling/reskilling and creating access to training for the green energy workforce, aiming to capture its socio-economic benefits. Launched in June 2024, the European Solar Academy is a proactive response to the demand to develop learning content to upskill and reskill workers required for the solar photovoltaic value chain. With the proven success of the European Battery Academy, the EIT InnoEnergy Skills Institute now aims to use this model as a blueprint within the solar industrial value chain.
The Strategic Importance of Solar
The shift towards solar energy is not only critical for the transition towards electrification but a key component of Europe’s industrial strategy – helping to ensure the EU has the workforce to manufacture 40% of demand for net-zero technologies domestically. Reshoring the photovoltaic industry in Europe makes strategic sense, facilitating the transition for Europeans by tapping into the substantial market opportunities photovoltaics present. By 2050, photovoltaics are expected to account for about 50% of EU power production, generating significant socio-economic benefits, such as GDP growth, quality jobs, tax revenues, and revitalising deindustrialised areas. The security of supply of photovoltaic panels is also critical; maintaining a robust European industry ensures resilience against external shocks like geopolitical tensions or supply chain disruptions. Additionally, the photovoltaic value-chain shares significant overlaps with semiconductor production, further highlighting the strategic need for a strong domestic sector. The EU’s Net-Zero Industry Act foresees the launch of Net-Zero Industry Academies, recognising the dual benefits of job creation and industrial upscaling. As the EU faces substantial skills gaps—a challenge highlighted by over 70% of firms noting skill shortages as a barrier to investment. It is estimated that around 50% of EU power production in 2050 will come from solar, which makes the Academy’s role ever more vital.
Learning from the European Battery Academy
The European Battery Academy, mandated by the European Commission, set a precedent in skill development. By identifying future skills needs, designing tailored programs, and fostering governments and industry partnerships, it has paved the way for similar success in the solar and other sectors. The Academy offers a structured platform for both upskilling and reskilling. As of April 2024, approximately 67 000 workers and 90 trainers had received training through the European Battery Academy. Key insights from the battery sector have informed the structure and strategy of the European Solar Academy, ensuring that the curriculum is comprehensive and dynamically aligned with industry requirements.
A Tailored Approach
At the heart of the European Solar Academy’s methodology is a deep understanding of the industrial value chain and the specific roles that need to be filled. From technicians to engineers, the curriculum is designed to address the entire spectrum of the solar sector’s needs. Partnering with leading firms and local training providers and leveraging a robust IT infrastructure ensures that training is accessible and practical, a swift transition from learning to employment is facilitated. With plans to use the European Battery Academy’s model as a blueprint in other green technologies, EIT InnoEnergy is setting a standard for educational excellence in renewable energy. Strategic partnerships with governments and key industry players indicate widespread recognition and trust in this initiative.
Conclusions and Lessons Learned
The European Battery Academy has shown that successful training programmes require close cooperation with all involved parties and must be tailored to the industry’s specific needs to address the shortage of skilled workers. By working with partners in the industry, government, and educational sectors, the EIT InnoEnergy Skills Institute has been able to greatly expand the reach and effectiveness of its programs.
Recognising that companies now prioritise practical skills when hiring, the EIT InnoEnergy Skills Institute focuses on assessing and developing these skills. In partnership with ManpowerGroup, customised services like source-train-hire and talent pipelines have been developed. This underscores our joint commitment to providing comprehensive workforce development solutions within the green energy sector.
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