REN21 Renewables Academy 2014

2014 marked both the 10th anniversary of REN21 as well as a decade of rapid changes on the renewable energy front. In celebration of these milestones, REN21 held its first Renewables Academy, dedicated exclusively for REN21’s contributor community. The event was held at the World Conference Center in Bonn from 10-12 November.

Over the 2 1/2 days 150 participants from 40 countries met to collectively develop new ideas in a creative and informal setting. The program focussed on key policy drivers needed to advance a global energy transition. Four plenary sessions and six parallel sessions provided a rich, diverse environment for ideas. People were able to follow the proceedings remotely via YouTube Live and submit questions for discussion. Over the course of the Academy, over 500 people participated on-line.

A short evaluation carried out at the end of the event confirmed that the Academy was a success. Participants provided valuable feedback on both the content and the logistics of the event, and were unanimous in their support for REN21 to develop the Renewables Academy into a regular event.Participants also provided ideas for thematic areas to be discussed at future Academy events.