Sustainable Energy in Ukraine: A Hackathon for Innovation and Reconstruction

Sustainable Energy in Ukraine: A Hackathon for Innovation and Reconstruction

The Faculty of Energy Engineering at POLITEHNICA Bucharest is set to host the Hackathon “Sustainable Energy in Ukraine”, a five-day interdisciplinary event aimed at developing solutions for rebuilding Ukraine’s energy infrastructure in a post-war context. Organized within the framework of the EELISA European University 4th Joint Call, this hackathon brings together students, researchers, and industry experts to tackle real-world energy challenges through collaborative innovation.

A Critical Moment for Energy Innovation

The ongoing energy crisis in Ukraine has highlighted the urgent need for resilient and sustainable energy systems. As the country looks toward reconstruction, integrating advanced energy technologies is essential to ensuring long-term stability and environmental sustainability. This hackathon provides a platform for participants to explore the role of nuclear technologies, radiological protection, medical physics, and small modular reactors (SMRs) in addressing these challenges.

By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the event encourages participants to develop innovative solutions that combine engineering expertise with policy insights, environmental considerations, and technological advancements.

A Unique Learning Experience

The Sustainable Energy in Ukraine Hackathon is designed to provide a dynamic and immersive learning environment that goes beyond traditional academic settings. Participants will engage in challenge-based learning, working in teams to develop practical solutions to complex energy problems.

The event will feature:

- Expert-led lectures and discussions, providing insights into the latest advancements in sustainable energy technologies.

- Hands-on simulations, allowing participants to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

- Mentorship from leading professionals and researchers, offering guidance and industry perspectives.

- A hybrid format, enabling both in-person and online participation to ensure accessibility for students across different locations.

Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to earn EELISA Credentials (ECTS credits), recognizing their contributions and achievements in the hackathon.

A Collaborative International Effort

This initiative brings together a diverse group of academic institutions, research organizations, and industry partners, fostering a truly international approach to solving Ukraine’s energy challenges.

The event is organized with the participation of EELISA partner universities, including:

- National University of Science and Technology Politehnica Bucharest (POLITEHNICA Bucharest)

- Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM)

- Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME)

- Kyiv National University (KNU)

In addition, two Ukrainian institutions—Karazin Kharkiv National University of Ukraine and National Technical University of Ukraine “Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute”—are actively involved in the hackathon, ensuring a strong connection to the local energy needs and infrastructure challenges in Ukraine.

The European Nuclear Education Network (ENEN) will also contribute, ensuring that the hackathon aligns with European best practices in nuclear education and energy sustainability.

Event Details and Participation

The Sustainable Energy in Ukraine Hackathon will take place at:

Location: POLITEHNICA Bucharest, Faculty of Energy Engineering

Dates: April 7–11, 2025

Students and researchers interested in participating are encouraged to apply before February 28, 2025.

Registration and further details can be found at the official event link: Register Here.