Spring School 2026: Training on Solar Off-Grids: Fundamentals and Aspects on Life Cycle Engineering

In this spring school, students from different countries will come together to explore the world of solar off-grid systems. In depth knowledge on sustainability will be taught through hands-on and practice-oriented tasks. The course will highlight life cycle engineering and end-of-life recycling of solar off-grids. Participants will gain a solid understanding of decentralized solar energy, and strengthen their problem-solving abilities, data collection techniques, teamwork, communication skills, digital skills, and sustainability knowledge in an international setting.

5 day training program | 23rd February – 27th February 2026 | Bochum, Germany

Sign up here

Registration deadline: 30th November 2025 

General Information

Duration1 week on-site in Bochum + 4 online live preparatory lectures in February
On-Site Dates

23 February – 27 February 2026 

LocationBochum, Germany
CostThe spring school itself is free of charge and meals (lunch and coffeebreaks) will be provided. Participants arrange and cover their travel & accommodation costs. 
Tip: Seek Erasmus+ funding for travel costs! Contact your international office for details.
Workload5 ECTS
AssessmentPass/Fail

Who can apply?

Students who

  • are interested in photovoltaics and renewable energy.
  • want to work on real-world problems related to solar energy systems.
  • come from the fields of renewable energy, sustainability, or similar areas.
  • want to experience working in an interdisciplinary and international team.

Agenda

 ThemeSchedule
23.02.2026 (Mon) Foundations of Off-Grid Systems, Problem-Based Learning, and SustainabilityTBA
24.02.2026 (Tue)Hands-On Learning: Prototyping Off-Grid Solar Charging InfrastructureTBA
25.02.2026 (Wed)Real-World Impact: Sustainability Assessment and Insights from a Living LabTBA
26.02.2026 (Thu)Global Context: PV Development in Africa and Recycling StrategyTBA
27.02.2026 (Fri)Creative Reflection: Recreational Learning ActivityTBA

Why Off-Grid Solar?

Solar off-grids are decentralized, solar-powered energy systems that operate independently from the main grid—ideal for remote areas and a sustainable alternative to diesel generators and utility grids. They enable climate-friendlyelectricity access, strengthenenergy independence, and open up new opportunities for innovation and local development. If you are interested in renewable energy and sustainability, this is a forward-looking topic with global relevance—hands-on, impactful, and full of potential for meaningful projects.

For Teachers

  • Teachers can also participate to learn pedagogy and take the experience for organizing such events. 

  • In addition, teachers have the opportunity to teach one session for 1 hr., on the topic of sustainability, solar energy etc. However, to do so please send a one-page summary of your agenda (Topic, Main Outcome, Interactive Element). We will select one teacher based on the forementioned points. 

Glimpse into our topics

How to get around

External content

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Footpath from the U35 stop “Lennershof” to the main entrance

To get to Campus, you can take the U35 subway

  • Get off at the Lennershof stop and turn left when you reach the upper elevator level, heading south.
  • Follow the street “Im Westenfeld” - a one-way street - and turn left at the end.
  • Turn right at the next junction, pass the parking lots on the left, then the BlueBox (left) and the H-building (right), and come to the street “Am Hochschulcampus”. Turn left here until you reach the crosswalk directly in front of the entrance to the AKAFÖ daycare center.
  • Cross this and you will find yourself directly in front of the main entrance.

Get to know Bochum

Organizers

This spring school is part of Erasmus+ funded SEED project which aims to develop innovative vocational education and training, working with experts from five different European regions to phase out fossil fuels and contributing to Europe becoming a fossil free energy continent.

The organizers of the PV spring school are two German project partners working in the field of sustainable technologies:

  • The Sustainable Technologies Laboratory at Bochum University of Applied Sciences is an innovative research centre that focuses on sustainable and forward-looking topics in the field of technology. They combine expertise and commitment to develop solutions for the challenges of a more sustainable future.
  • Green Power Brains is an innovative company that develops sustainable energy solutions. Their work focuses on renewable technologies such as solar power, decentralized hydrogen production, and blockchain applications. With a strong commitment to community empowerment, they also offer training programs to support local development

Discover Bochum: Things to do in the city

  • Planetarium Bochum - an astronomy center that will transport you to space with their projectors.
  • German Mining Museum - a museum that looks into Bochum's past as a mining hub.
  • Bochum Art Museum - a big collection of 20th century European art incl. Zofia Kulik, Andy Warhol, Louise Nevelson, Tadeusz Kantor, and others.
  • Bermuda3eck - an area in the city centre known for its nightlife. There are many bars, restaurants and clubs.
  • Meditherme - a relaxing spa with pools, saunas and relaxation areas.
  • Starlight Express - a musical where the performers are all on roller skates.
  • Stadtpark - a large park within the city with giant trees, gardens and a zoo.
  • Botanical Garden - beautiful botanical gardens behind Ruhr University Bochum (RUB).
  • There are also many restaurants and shops easily available in the city centre.
  • Trips to neighbouring cities via train: Cologne, Dusseldorf, Essen, Munster are all easily accessible within 1 hour.

Visit City Tourism website to discover more about Bochum.

Meet your spring school teachers


For further queries, please contact: