EIT InnoEnergy, a key player in sustainable energy innovation, has just launched the European Solar Academy. This initiative, mandated by the European Commission as one of its Net-Zero Academies, aims to reskill and upskill 65,000 workers in the European solar photovoltaic (PV) industry over the next two years.
Addressing the Growing Demand for Skilled Workers
As the EU strives to install nearly 600 GW of solar PV panels by 2030 and meet 40% of its net-zero technology demand with European-made products, there’s a pressing need for a skilled workforce. Here’s a snapshot of the current and future demand:
- Installation Needs: Up to 400,000 additional trained workers by 2030.
- Manufacturing Goals: An extra 50,000 trained workers needed to produce 30 GW of solar energy domestically.
EIT InnoEnergy’s recent market research highlights significant skills gaps, especially in areas like:
- Training electricians on safe grid connections
- Certifying construction workers for installation
- Developing skills for process engineers, technicians, and operators in producing solar cells, modules, and components
The Academy’s Comprehensive Approach
The European Solar Academy, run by the InnoEnergy Skills Institute, is set to tackle these challenges head-on. Here’s what the Academy plans to offer:
- Extensive Course Library: Over 40 industry-recognized certification courses across the solar PV value chain.
- Local Training Providers: Certification of more than 80 local training providers.
- Industry Collaboration: Partnering with industry and workforce networks to deliver large-scale training.
Voices of Support
Thierry Breton, Commissioner for the Internal Market, emphasized the importance of this initiative:
“Boosting solar PV manufacturing in Europe is crucial for our energy security and competitiveness. The Solar Academy’s launch, even before the Net Zero Industry Act comes into force, underscores our commitment to reducing emissions and creating quality jobs in the EU.”
Kadri Simson, Commissioner for Energy, added:
“Solar power is central to our energy transition, with the potential to create thousands of jobs across Europe. The Net Zero Academy will help European workers embrace this opportunity and support our ambitious REPowerEU goals.”
Oana Penu, Director of the InnoEnergy Skills Institute, highlighted the proven success of their training model:
“The Solar Academy is based on our successful Battery Academy, which has trained 67,000 workers. We aim to provide personalized learning journeys that meet the specific needs of businesses across the solar PV value chain.”
Launch Event at Intersolar Europe
The European Solar Academy was officially announced at the European Solar Photovoltaic Industry Alliance (ESIA) PV Forum during Intersolar Europe in Munich. This event marks a significant step towards addressing the urgent skills gap in Europe’s solar PV sector and preparing a new generation of workers for the industry’s future.
Stay tuned for more updates as the European Solar Academy begins its mission to transform the solar PV landscape in Europe!
