The EcoStruxure Energy Hub Challenge by Schneider Electric offered an exclusive opportunity for InnoEnergy Masters+ students, designed to immerse them in a real-world energy efficiency project as part of their study journey. Open to all first- and second-year students in the programme, this challenge highlighted the unique, hands-on approach of InnoEnergy’s curriculum, which fosters entrepreneurial thinking and technical expertise. By tackling a live industry problem, students not only applied their classroom knowledge but also gained valuable experience that will set them apart in the energy sector.

In the EcoStruxure Energy Hub Challenge, each team was tasked with developing unique value propositions tailored to specific commercial sectors, focusing on the distinct energy needs and motivations for adopting Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure Energy Hub. For one of the standout teams, this meant analyzing the requirements of supermarkets and gas stations to identify why these sectors would benefit from Schneider’s solutions and what set these offerings apart in their markets. Additionally, the team crafted a business model demonstrating how EcoStruxure could enhance energy awareness and operational efficiency within these sectors, aligning with both regulatory needs and practical energy-saving goals. This multifaceted approach underscored the challenge’s emphasis on creating targeted, industry-relevant strategies, making Schneider’s technology both appealing and effective.

This event provided unique insights into Schneider Electric’s approach to tackling energy efficiency issues, allowing participants to interact closely with industry experts. Rishab highlighted the collaborative spirit of Schneider, noting how “they were open to our ideas and seriously considered our proposals,” illustrating the company’s commitment to fostering innovation.

The winning team selected supermarkets and gas stations as key sectors for EcoStruxure’s implementation, recognizing the sectors’ similar energy needs and close geographic proximity. Their proposal focused on how EcoStruxure could transform energy management within these environments by enhancing energy awareness, monitoring electrical systems, and delivering detailed performance insights. This focus aligned with key energy directives, such as the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) and the Energy Efficiency Directive (EED), demonstrating the team’s practical understanding of both technical and regulatory aspects.

In their approach, the team conducted an in-depth analysis of the Iberia region, factoring in market potential and government incentives that support energy-efficient technologies. Collaborating with experts in the petroleum industry further validated their findings, showcasing the feasibility of EcoStruxure’s deployment in these sectors. The success of their solution led Schneider Electric to recruit Ashtad as a trainee post-graduation, a testament to the real-world relevance and potential impact of their project.

For the winning team, this experience offered more than industry exposure; it shaped their aspirations within the energy field. By developing a practical solution, they gained insights into how digital tools can drive energy efficiency. “This experience has deepened my interest in innovative energy solutions, especially those that blend technology with sustainability,” one team member shared, while Rishab noted that energy efficiency is essential for achieving net-zero goals​.

The EcoStruxure Energy Hub Challenge reinforced InnoEnergy’s commitment to combining academic learning with hands-on, real-world problem-solving. Through such initiatives, InnoEnergy offers students an unparalleled pathway to bridge the gap between theory and practice in sustainable energy. The next exciting challenge, The Future of Strategic Energy Portfolio Management, will take this journey even further. In this upcoming competition, participants will design an Electricity Portfolio Scenario Management Tool to optimize costs, emissions, and risks for electricity supply in Spain. This tool will empower stakeholders to make informed, strategic decisions about electricity procurement, fostering future-ready skills in energy management.

If you’re passionate about creating a sustainable impact through innovative solutions, the InnoEnergy Masters+ programme is an ideal launchpad. Join us, and be part of the next generation of energy leaders ready to transform the industry.