Presentation of energy certificates during New Energy Forum
During the New Energy Forum 2025, around fifty students from the New Energy Academy received their energy certificate.
The energy transition requires a sufficient number of skilled energy professionals. To inspire students to pursue an energy career, the New Energy Academy offers students from the Hanze University of Applied Sciences and the University of Groningen a program where they can gain broad knowledge about sustainability and the energy transition through lectures, excursions, and other activities. Upon completion of the program, students can earn a certificate. Traditionally, the award ceremony takes place during the New Energy Forum.
New recruits for our energy sector
Tim Ottema, Project Manager at the New Energy Academy, organizes all of the Academy's activities. "I try to create a program that's as diverse as possible, so it's appealing to students from all fields of study. Because for the energy transition, we need professionals from all disciplines. Whether it's economics, psychology, engineering, or law," says Tim. "Everyone can contribute to the energy transition from their own field." The Graduation Ceremony is one of the highlights of the year for him. "Here you see the new talent for our energy sector; I think that's wonderful."
Growing group of students
A total of 167 certificates were awarded last year at New Energy Academy, with some students even completing multiple series and earning multiple certificates. The number of students receiving certificates during the Graduation Ceremony grows every year. This year, 47 students registered. "That's more than ever before," Tim proudly explains. Earde van den Akker is one of the students who received his certificates. Which New Energy Academy activity stood out most to him? "It was the excursion to Eemshaven. Seeing what they do at Groningen Seaports was very interesting," says Earde. Chad Knowler also attended the ceremony to sign his certificate. He emphasized the importance of continuous learning. "There's always something new to learn, and seeking new experiences is invaluable for personal growth," he says.
Graduation Ceremony during New Energy Forum
The Graduation Ceremony has been part of the program since the very first edition of New Energy Forum. New Energy Forum is the festival for the (upcoming) energy and mobility transition, making it the perfect place to present certificates to the newest members of the energy sector.
About New Energy Forum
New Energy Forum is the festival for (aspiring) mobility and energy professionals and anyone concerned with a livable future. It's an annual initiative of our organization (New Energy Coalition). Entrance, Hanze & Hive Mobility at the Entrance test site on Zernike Campus Groningen. The Entrance Award will also be presented during the festival: the prize for pioneers in the energy transition.
On June 19, 2025, Groningen was once again the vibrant hub of the energy and mobility transition during New Energy Forum. This unique event, now boasting five successful editions, is much more than a traditional conference. It's the most distinctive energy festival in the Northern Netherlands, unique in its format thanks to its combination of content, networking, and experience, with this edition as a standout. This edition was entirely dedicated to DO!ers – the place where action takes center stage. Over 1.700 visitors gathered at the Entrance test site.