How the EU is building a skilled workforce to make green ambitions a reality The launch of the European Solar Academy by the European Commission in 2024 is a significant step forward in securing the future of solar by ensuring we have the teams to make it happen. It’s the first of several EU Academies under the Net-Zero Industry Act (NZIA), aimed at equipping our labour force with the skills needed for net-zero technologies. The Academy will ensure that there is necessary expertise across the entire value chain, from design to installation, which is crucial for meeting sustainability goals and maintaining leadership in the market. The Solar Academy’s goal to train 100,000 workers in the next three years is ambitious but absolutely necessary. It plans to achieve this through a mix of practical and theoretical training tailored to various roles within the PV value chain. Having skilled professionals, from those designing products to those installing them on rooftops across Europe, is crucial. The Academy will work with industry leaders and educational institutions to create comprehensive training programs, using online platforms and workshops to reach as many people as possible. This initiative will help close the skills gap and support the rapid growth seen in the solar sector. Fostering a sustainable community Energy sharing is another exciting development that’s becoming more common. When we talk about sharing surplus solar power, it’s important to understand that anyone whose solar plant is connected to the grid is already sharing energy. It may not be directly with their immediate neighbours, but that excess power is fed into the nt ant s y. y y V m e ive d e. d or. Solar energy has become the fastest-growing source of electricity, surpassing 1 terawatt of capacity “
ANDRES ANIJALG Andres Anijalg is Co-Founder and CEO of Roofit.Solar, a revolutionary solar technology startup. With his extensive experience leading large-scale international energy projects and his visionary leadership, Andres is driving innovation and transforming the solar industry.
grid and used by others in the community. Excellent solar products are designed to maximise energy production, ensuring that any surplus can contribute to the overall grid supply. This increases the efficiency of renewable energy use and supports a more resilient and sustainable energy system for everyone. Every solar roof or solar panel installed helps power homes and businesses nearby, creating a more interconnected and green community. As we look towards the future, the potential for solar energy is limitless. Innovation will continue to power the transition, bolstered by initiatives like the European Solar Academy and driven by the vision of a greener tomorrow illustrated by ambitious energy targets. Together, with every solar panel installed, we can build a sustainable, low-carbon economy that benefits not only our environment but also our communities and economies. y
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THE FUTURE OF ENERGY
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