Knowledge Triangle for a Low Carbon Economy

In response to the threat of climate change and the global challenges in the Energy sector, countries around the world have pledged to invest in low-carbon energy. Renewable energy sources, storage, smart grids, energy efficiency technologies and more, are some of the key segments which will help in massive decarburization. However, the global challenges in Energy sector cannot be successfully addressed without the contribution of knowledge-based innovations drawing on education and research in Energy field. To successfully respond to these challenges it is necessary to introduce new mechanisms which will connect HEIs with the industry sector and society and produce new innovative solutions. The Knowledge Triangle (KT) paradigm highlights the importance of linking research, education and innovation. Furthermore, to effectively address the challenges in higher education and skill demands, novel training, learning and knowledge transfer schemes are required. KALCEA draws its motivation from the lack of KT mechanisms and structures in WBCs. Cooperation with the industry is weak and on an ad hoc basis, mostly based on individual contacts, while a systematic approach does not exist. KALCEA will establish Knowledge-Innovation Centers (KICs), structrures hosted by selected WBC universities for capacity building in the area of KT; will build strategic partnerships with the industry sector; will develop open innovation platforms based on cooperation; will enable lifelong learning through professional education services in the field of Sustainable Energy through innovative actual and virtual learning environments, such as living labs and learning factories. The KALCEA target groups in HEIs include the administrative, technical and academic staff and PHD students, young researchers in Research Institutions, young professionals, entrepreneurs, and managers in the industry sector.