The UNESCO Chair at the Energy Community Summer School 2024

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The Energy Community Summer School is a specialized postgraduate program focused on energy-related subjects. It provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of energy policy development and sector regulation. Founded in 2015, it is considered one of Europe’s premier multidisciplinary energy summer schools. This program aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, equipping future leaders with the necessary tools to address complex energy issues.

The program hosted 48 exceptional postgraduate students and young professionals from academia, public administration, research centres, and NGOs across 28 countries. This diverse group brings together a wealth of experience and perspectives, enriching the learning environment. The curriculum adopts a multidisciplinary approach, covering a wide range of topics, including legal, economic, political, technical and sustainability aspects of energy production, supply, and consumption. This comprehensive methodology helps students grasp the intricate nature of energy issues from various perspectives, equipping them to develop innovative solutions urgently needed in Europe.

Our researcher, Ilija Sazdovski, held a group work session titled «Evaluating Sustainability: Prospects of Successful Energy Planning,» which provided an invaluable opportunity for young experts from diverse fields to explore various facets of energy planning. This discussion considered social, environmental, and economic dimensions based on multi-criteria analysis. The session aimed to highlight the importance of integrating sustainability into energy planning, emphasizing the need for balanced consideration of all relevant factors.

During the session, students were divided into groups to actively engage in discussions, debating different perspectives based on their assigned roles. This interactive approach fostered a collaborative learning environment where participants could share their insights and challenge each other’s viewpoints. The primary goal was to impart foundational knowledge about sustainability evaluation of energy planning measures using a set of predefined criteria. This hands-on experience allowed students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios, enhancing their problem-solving skills.

It was a significant privilege to share the platform with over 33 esteemed representatives from the European Commission and Energy Community Secretariat, international financial institutions, renowned professors, and industry practitioners. These high-level speakers brought a wealth of knowledge and experience to the program, offering students unique insights into the latest developments in the energy sector. Their contributions helped to create a rich and dynamic learning environment, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the energy community.

Overall, the Energy Community Summer School provides a unique and enriching educational experience. Its multidisciplinary approach, combined with the expertise of leading figures in the energy sector, ensures that participants are well-equipped to tackle the pressing energy issues of our time. This program not only enhances their academic and professional knowledge but also prepares them to become influential leaders in the field of energy.