Many EIT InnoEnergy students simply think they will study at 2 European universities; but the truth is, the experience is even more global.
An EIT InnoEnergy Master’s programme is an exciting opportunity for students to continue their education abroad. Whether for Europeans simply crossing a border or for students flying in from all over the globe, the programmes teach valuable perspectives they may not have had the chance to in their home country.
The energy transition is complex, and needs to be adapted to the unique set of resources and characteristics of each individual country. Therefore, the policies, tools and technologies used for the energy transition differ by each country, too. So, when you study a Master’s programme at two different European universities, you are not only learning about the European energy transition, but also getting an in-depth look at how your two host countries are going about it!
Studying in Sweden
And it turns out, the differences can be huge. During my first year at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, I learnt how the Nordic countries are blessed with large hydropower assets, leading to cheap emission-free electricity. Sweden uses barely any natural gas, and they are rapidly rolling out electric vehicles and associated infrastructure. As such, they have been well-poised leaders in decarbonisation.
Studying in Belgium
Belgium – where I studied the second year of the Master’s – is only a thousand kilometres away. The situation there is very different. 50% of their electricity generation coming from nuclear plants which are set to be retired in the coming years. They country is struggling with energy demand and are even considering to construct new gas-fired power plants. At the same time, they are looking for more sustainable solutions, so energy engineers are much needed!
Diversity beyond countries
Beyond the countries where you study, there is also another aspect – my favourite about the EIT InnoEnergy Master’s programmes: the diversity. With my peers coming from all around the world – from Indonesia to Italy and Iran – it was fascinating to hear about the energy landscapes in their home country, and what motivated them to pursue education abroad.
In many of my courses of the Master’s in Smart Electrical Networks, we learned about different energy projects around the world: from a joint solar and hydrogen facility in Spain to a new HVDC grid in China. This really opened up a world of opportunities for me.
In short, by pursuing an EIT InnoEnergy Master’s programme, you will learn about the European energy transition, but also about the energy transition in countries around the world from your friends-turned-peers. And this will make you a better-equipped engineer to tackle them!
Apply today
Are you ready for the global experience?
EIT InnoEnergy Master School is now inviting applications for 2023 intake – join the go-to-destination for tomorrow’s sustainable energy professionals!