Fifty students from Avans University of Applied Sciences are exploring the energy transition for RWE as part of an 11-week project.

The question we put to 50 students of Business Technology Administration was: How can RWE position itself strategically in today’s changing world? In an 11-week project, the students worked on several strategic value propositions for RWE. The project was supported by RWE's OranjeWind Knowledge programme.

Bas Jansen, OranjeWind Knowledge Programme Manager at RWE: "The students analysed trends such as sustainability, digitalisation and ageing and translated them into actionable advice for RWE." The ideas proposed by the groups ranged from a tidal power plant in Zeeland to AI-powered maintenance inspections and virtually shared neighbourhood batteries. Bas: “The energy system is highly complex and entirely fascinating, and seeing students catch the bug during the project was fantastic. We hope that this introduction will encourage them to consider a career in the energy sector, because we desperately need more people.

Getting to know RWE and cooperate

On 1 February, the students and lecturers visited the Amer power plant to learn about the genesis, current status and future vision of RWE. Jens Fuhrmann, Head of Strategic Development BECCUS at RWE, explained RWE's carbon capture plans to the students. The group was also given a tour of the Amer power plant.

Patrick Vercauteren, Lecturer in Business Technology Administration (BTA) at Avans: "Working with RWE makes the Avans curriculum more relevant and hands-on by introducing BTA students students to the energy transition and increasing awareness of their personal and professional role in it. RWE is able to showcase the various aspects of the transition, and has been an excellent partner throughout, providing pleasant and professional support."

The partnership is part of OranjeWind Knowledge, which you can read more about here.