University Network on Phd Programmes in Energy Technology

Access to clean and affordable energy is an important basis for the sustainable development of a country and for the quality of life of the population. The universities can contribute with the supply of skilled human resources and through relevant research objectives. Distributed Renewable Energy Systems are now emerging as competitive alternatives to the extensions of the national electrical grid. This is an area of energy technology calling for innovation and new technical solutions (small scale combined hydro, wind, solar and bioenergy). Universities taking on these challenges, with a problem solving approach, can then have a direct impact on the society. The partner universities have collaborated on research and education in energy technology during the last 10 years. The results have been new and sustainable master programs on renewable energy technology at all universities. The partners now acknowledge the needs for strengthening the doctoral programs. As doctoral programs are research intensive, as the number of PhD candidates currently is quite low and as the university resources are limited, a cost efficient path towards improved PhD programs is to approach this jointly.The main outputs of the combined efforts among the Curriculum Partners will be a joint curriculum (Joint PhD Course Catalogue) and joint access to improved and specialized research facilities (Training Nodes). The long term aim is that this university network shall be sustained as a Network of Excellence in the area of Energy Technology. The further continuing improvements of laboratory resources and educational material shall be accessible to the Network Partners, and also facilitate the development of PhD level programs at the Training Partners in the project.