E. Lindberg*, F. Fiedler, C. Bales, M. Ronnelid

Solar Energy Research Center SERC, Dalarna University College, 78188 Borlange, Sweden

Corresponding Author, eli@du. se

Abstract

The European Solar Engineering School ESES is a one-year master programme that started in 1999 at the Solar Energy Research Center, SERC, Dalarna University College. The programme, run in English, consists of courses which cover passive and active solar thermal, solar energy for tropical climates, PV and PV/Hybrid system design, and have sections on topics such as economy and social aspects as well as other renewable energy sources. ESES is then finished with a research project as thesis work. Over the years the contents have been evolved and improved, and new experimental work has been introduced.

The programme has been growing in popularity over the years, with over 20 students each year. Approximately half of the students come from Europe, the rest coming from all over the globe. This paper describes the contents and experiences from eight years of running the programme. The majority of the students from ESES have found work in the solar industry, energy industry or taken up PhD positions. An alumni group has been started that actively gives support to past, present and potential future students.

Keywords: Solar education, master’s programme

1. Introduction

Nowadays it is widely accepted among scientists and common people that direct solar energy is an important energy source which will contribute in gradually replacing non-renewable sources of energy. In this process, university trained engineers play a crucial role. It is therefore necessary that these young women and men get a good understanding and comprehensive knowledge of renewable energy technology.

In 1996 the formation of European Solar Engineering School ESES was proposed, in which students from all over Europe could receive appropriate training (1). Such a school should preferably be placed somewhere in Europe where the climate is stable, with clear skies during most of the year, so laboratory work and hands-on experience could be regular parts of the curricula. An ESES Initiative Group was formed in 1997, and ESES was started at the Solar Energy Research Center SERC, Dalarna University College, in Borlange (Sweden) until another suitable site could be found. This site has not been found, and in fact the search has been stopped as the programme has been found to work well in its current form and location.

During the summers of 1998 and 1999 the first trial courses in solar thermal and photovoltaic engineering were given. In autumn 1998, a curriculum for a one-year master level programme in solar energy engineering was sanctioned by the University’s Educational Board. In autumn 2007 a completely restructured one-year programme started.

The number of students has slowly increased over the years from a modest 6 students in the first full year to over 20 students in the last years. The students come from a wide range of countries from around the world.

Not all students intend to study the whole programme. They may choose single courses as part of studies in other programmes or are interested in getting knowledge in a specific field i. e. photovoltaics. Many students are exchange students in partnership with other universities, for example the Erasmus programme.