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The EKAT Trainings (Electric Power Flow Facilities Training) have emerged as a significant capacity-building initiative within the renewable energy (RE) sector, addressing the critical need for certified technicians skilled in working with high-voltage systems. Organized into five groups and following EÜAŞ’s standard procedures, the training sessions spanned from August 2023 to January 2024 and were held across key regions including Çanakkale, Balıkesir, Manisa, and Mersin.

To ensure participants could focus entirely on their education, comprehensive logistical support was provided, covering travel arrangements, accommodation, meals, and training materials. This support allowed trainees to concentrate on their studies without financial burdens or logistical concerns. Essential training materials, including course manuals and safety equipment, were supplied to ensure all participants were well-equipped to complete their training. These measures were crucial in maintaining the high quality of the program and creating the best possible learning environment.

In summary, the EKAT Trainings played a vital role in equipping technicians with the specialized skills necessary for working with high-voltage systems in the renewable energy sector. Despite challenges such as limited training capacity and strict eligibility criteria, the project adapted effectively by expanding its target group and securing administrative adjustments. This allowed for the successful training of 240 eligible technicians, providing the necessary logistical and material support essential for the program’s success. These efforts not only addressed immediate sector needs but also contributed to the long-term development of a skilled workforce capable of supporting Türkiye’s transition to renewable energy sources.

om January 29 to February 2, 2024, a third study visit in Germany brought together ten participants eager to explore the latest developments in renewable energy. The program concentrated on renewable energy technologies and workforce demands in photovoltaic occupations. Attendees visited prominent educational institutions such as the Berlin University of Technology and RENAC (Renewables Academy), gaining valuable insights into training and applications in the renewable energy field.

On the first day of the visit, sessions at RENAC emphasized the need for knowledge in crafting sustainable energy solutions. A guided tour at Berlin Technical University’s Institute of Distance Learning introduced participants to innovative research on photovoltaic systems and hydrogen turbines. The second day saw participants explore Neues Energienforum Feldheim, an energy self-sufficient village, where they learned about its innovative district funding models. They also visited a biogas plant and solar installations, further enriching their understanding of sustainable energy practices.

In the following days, participants engaged with leading institutions like TU Berlin and the PI Photovoltaik Institute, gaining in-depth knowledge about the latest research in solar and wind energy. A visit to Solarwatt’s facility in Dresden allowed them to observe the solar panel production process and the company’s commitment to sustainability in clean energy generation. This visit provided attendees with an excellent opportunity to explore career prospects in the renewable energy sector and interact with key industry players.

Overall, this study visit equipped participants with essential experiences to enhance their knowledge and skills in renewable energy, preparing them to take on a more active role in developing sustainable energy solutions.

Held from December 20-23, 2023, in Istanbul, the “Energy Producing Factories and Buildings Summit and Exhibition” (EÜBF) focused on energy efficiency, smart building automation systems, and sustainable energy production technologies over four days. The exhibition featured 251 exhibitors and 197 speakers from 37 countries, catering to a wide array of stakeholders in the energy sector. The RE-You trainees had the opportunity to attend panels, visit exhibits, and network with professionals from the energy efficiency and renewable energy sectors.

Each day of the summit had a different focus. On the first day, students familiarized themselves with the expo layout and attended introductory panels on smart building systems and energy efficiency solutions. The second day was dedicated to in-depth discussions on renewable energy technologies, including cogeneration and rooftop solar systems. Day three centered around career exploration, with students interacting with exhibitors and attending dedicated summits on emerging trends in energy production. The final day allowed students to reflect on their experiences and attend closing panels summarizing the key takeaways from the event.

Participation in this summit offered students valuable insights into the latest trends in energy production and efficiency. It also exposed them to innovative technologies and potential career paths within the renewable energy sector. The networking opportunities were particularly beneficial, allowing students to establish connections with leading professionals and organizations in the industry.

Held from November 15-17, 2023, in Istanbul, the 17^th World Energy Congress and Expo (EIF) was another significant event for the RE-You trainees. With more than 30,000 visitors, 304 exhibition booths, and over 150 speakers, the congress covered a wide array of topics relevant to the global energy sector. The event highlighted various forms of renewable energy, with a particular focus on solar energy, which dominated many discussions. Other topics included wind energy, hydroelectricity, nuclear energy, energy efficiency, digitalization, and electric vehicle infrastructure.

The congress also featured discussions on hydrogen energy, energy storage, and collaborative projects between Türkiye and Germany. This diversity of topics provided the RE-You trainees with a comprehensive overview of the current state of the energy industry and its future direction. Over three days, students attended panels, visited exhibition booths, and participated in career advancement seminars. The event was designed to give students insight into potential career paths within the energy sector. The extensive networking opportunities allowed students to interact with professionals from various industries and regions, helping them understand the skills and expertise needed to succeed in the energy field.

The experience gained from attending the EIF congress helped the RE-You trainees build a clearer picture of the evolving energy landscape. It also gave them a chance to interact with key players in the industry, thereby enhancing their career prospects. With the experience gained from such large-scale events, the trainees were better positioned to make a solid start in their careers within the energy sector.

Held on November 14, 2023, in Çanakkale, the second regional conference attracted 169 participants and was structured as a blend of plenary sessions and working groups. The conference was moderated by Eda Zaloğlu, with opening speeches delivered by key figures, including Team Leader Prof. Dusan Gvozdenac, Ali Koç from the South Marmara Development Agency Balıkesir Investment Support Office and RE-You Project Coordinator, and Bülent Cindil, GIZ Senior Project Coordinator for Energy and Climate Projects.

The focus of this conference was on the employment opportunities emerging in the renewable energy sector in both Türkiye and Germany. Experts from the Renewables Academy AG, such as Charlene Rossler and Uta Zaehringer, delivered detailed presentations on the renewable energy job market in Germany and the educational programs available for professionals looking to enter this field. These presentations laid the groundwork for in-depth discussions on how Türkiye can better align its workforce development initiatives with the evolving needs of the renewable energy sector.

Following the plenary sessions, participants divided into five working groups based on their areas of expertise or interest. These groups concentrated on solar energy, wind energy, biogas, green hydrogen, and battery storage. Each group was moderated by international experts who facilitated discussions on the current state of these technologies and their prospects. In the solar energy group, moderated by Salem Kadi, participants explored synergies between the Turkish and German solar industries, emphasizing how technology transfer could accelerate solar energy growth in Türkiye.

The biogas working group, moderated by Frank Hofmann, examined opportunities for expanding biogas production in Türkiye, drawing examples from Germany and other EU countries. Discussions highlighted the potential of biogas in waste management and biomethane production as key growth areas. In the green hydrogen group, moderated by Dr. Thomas Hillig, participants explored the emerging job market for hydrogen technologies and recognized the existing skills gap, as well as the potential for employment growth as green hydrogen technologies become more widespread.

The conference concluded with a consensus among participants that the event successfully provided a platform for meaningful knowledge exchange and networking. The working groups were identified as valuable forums for deeper discussions and exploring potential areas for future collaboration. The conference played a pivotal role in advancing the conversation on renewable energy and employment in Türkiye. By bringing together key local and international stakeholders, the event not only facilitated valuable knowledge transfer but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations in the renewable energy sector. The conferences underscored the critical importance of aligning workforce development initiatives with the growing demands of the renewable energy industry, especially in emerging fields such as green hydrogen and biogas.

Held on November 7-8, 2023, in Istanbul, the 12^th Turkish Wind Energy Congress united a broad array of stakeholders in the wind energy sector under the theme “The Century of Wind,” underscoring the growing importance of wind energy in Türkiye’s renewable landscape. The event attracted policymakers, regulatory authorities, industry leaders, academics, technical experts, and investors, all gathering to discuss the future of wind energy in Türkiye. 46 individuals from the RE-You Project, including trainees and representatives from the South Marmara Development Agency (GMKA), Balıkesir University, and Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University also attended the event.

Over two days, participants engaged in keynote speeches and panel discussions addressing market trends, technological advancements, and policy developments shaping the sector. Leading companies from the energy industry showcased their latest projects, offering insights into the investments shaping the future of the industry.

The second day was particularly significant for RE-You trainees, who attended a Career Festival organized by Energetic TÜREB, aimed at guiding students in exploring career opportunities within the energy sector. Sessions like “Talent Hunters in Human Resources” and “The Wind Journey from A to Z” provided students with practical career advice and insights into the challenges and prospects in wind energy. Interactive workshops, mock interviews, and sessions with industry professionals, including female leaders, enriched the learning experience, offering trainees a hands-on look into the industry.

For the RE-You trainees, TWEC presented a unique platform to connect with professionals, stay informed about emerging trends in wind energy, and explore potential career paths. Through interactive sessions and career-building activities, the congress helped prepare them for future roles in the renewable energy sector, bolstering their skills and knowledge for a promising career trajectory.

As part of the RE-You Project, a total of 148 participants successfully completed the Global Wind Organization (GWO) Basic Safety Training (BST) module, essential for the wind energy sector. The GWO BST module includes a comprehensive four-part training program, which serves as a foundational requirement for anyone looking to work in the industry. The program is designed to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate safely in potentially hazardous environments specific to the wind energy sector.

The GWO BST module covers critical areas including manual handling, working at heights, fire awareness, and first aid. First aid training ensures that individuals can respond to medical emergencies in isolated environments such as wind turbines, providing basic care until professional help arrives. The manual handling training helps prevent musculoskeletal injuries, teaching safe techniques for lifting and moving heavy tools and equipment. The fire awareness component educates participants on identifying fire hazards and responding effectively to fire risks in the confined spaces of wind turbines. The working-at-heights training is especially crucial, as it prepares technicians to use safety equipment correctly and respond to emergencies at heights exceeding 100 meters.

The trainings were conducted by certified trainers and held at the Continuing Education Centers (CECs) of participating universities, providing an optimal learning environment. Logistical support, accommodation, and other amenities were also provided to participants, ensuring a comprehensive training experience. With 148 participants earning GWO BST certification, this initiative marks a significant step in strengthening safety standards within Türkiye’s wind energy sector. This training not only enhances employability for participants but also contributes to higher safety and efficiency standards, reinforcing the project’s commitment to building a skilled and safety-conscious workforce to drive the transition to renewable energy.