
Energy Academy | University Students
We know that the next generation is full of ideas to change the world and the Energy Academy is here to help turn those ideas into real projects.
Across Portugal and Spain, this program brings together young students, innovators, and communities around a shared goal: accelerating a fair and inclusive energy transition through practical, community-driven solutions.
What happens in Portugal
In Portugal, Energy Academy showcases the power of turning ideas into action.
Through this university project, students from across the country are challenged to think creatively and develop innovative solutions for a more sustainable future. After a national call for ideas, projects are submitted and evaluated based on their impact, feasibility, and alignment with sustainability goals.
The selected teams:
- Receive financial support to implement their ideas
- Benefit from mentoring and technical guidance
- Participate in bootcamps focused on sustainability, leadership, and community engagement
These projects move from theory into real life, they are implemented in real contexts, improving everyday lives through solutions such as renewable energy use, circular economy models, and tools that promote more conscious energy consumption.
What happens in Spain
In Spain, Fundación EDP and Ashoka join forces to identify, connect, and support young changemakers with transformative ideas.
Through a national call, students aged 18 to 29 working in small teams are invited to submit early-stage ideas with the potential to create environmental and social impact.
Selected participants:
- Take part in a structured training and mentoring program
- Receive support to develop and test their ideas
- Present their projects at a final event, where the most impactful initiatives are selected for implementation funding
The program focuses on key themes such as:
- Energy literacy
- Inclusion and energy efficiency
- Renewable energy
- Sustainable mobility
- Circular economy
- Climate action and biodiversity
By combining learning, collaboration, and funding, the Spanish program helps transform early ideas into scalable solutions with real community impact.
Be part of the change
Do you believe you can create the next big idea?
Stay tuned for upcoming calls and join Energy Academy in shaping a more sustainable, inclusive future.
If you are from Spain
If you're a college student in Spain, submit a project that promotes sustainability in a community you love!
If you are from Portugal
If you're a college student in Portugal, submit a project that promotes sustainability in a community you love!
Explore student ideas
Energia de Propósito, I. P. Viana do Castelo | Viana do Castelo
Creating a sustainable island with clean energy production, rainwater harvesting, and the promotion of active citizenship, in a space that combines well-being, leisure, and environmental awareness.
I can’t believe it’s not a tree, Instituto Politécnico | Lisboa
An urban structure modeled after a tree, made from recycled materials and equipped with green technology: solar panels, air purifiers, and sensors. A symbol of sustainability right in the heart of the city.
Ohm-Brella, Nova FCT | Lisboa
Sunshades equipped with solar panels to power outdoor seating areas with renewable energy. A solution designed for small businesses that allows customers to charge their mobile devices while enjoying the sun.
METO (METhane bOost), Universidade de Aveiro | Aveiro
Turning food scraps from the cafeteria into biogas to generate electricity. A circular economy project that directly reduces waste and emissions at the university.
How to apply
Put together a team of 2 to 4 college students
Choose a community in your country to make a difference with a sustainability project
Fill out the form and give a pitch to be one of the winners
Questions?
Contact us
If you have any questions, feel free to ask them here!