Engaging NextGen in the energy transition

CHALLENGE

The transition towards more sustainable energy resources is a topic that leads to many discussions. When it comes to wind turbines and solar panels, we encounter people in favor and those who resist. Regarding the change of the landscape, the voice of the next generations (NextGen) is often not heard. The province of North Brabant would like to make a change, as this generation is more than any other generation a necessity to be involved. It is all about their future.

That is why the challenge regarding this issue was dropped at the Innovation Games in Tilburg:

“How might we involve the voice of younger generations, and make their voice count, regarding the transition of the landscape due to the energy transition?”

Innovation Game RIBW

SOLUTION

Two teams worked on this challenge during the Innovation Games in 2018. They found out that younger generation feld drowned out, did not know the way in the political landscape but were very concerned that older generations were to decide how their future should look like. Younger people had a different point of view regarding solar panels and wind turbines, as they not only look at the changing landscape, but also the importance of the transformation to fossil free energy.

Actively involving NextGen in the discussion, offering them a stage to share their thoughts, dreams and concerns, is not something done in just a few clicks. It needed long term action and profound attention. This is why the province started a team of young professionals to work on this challenge after the Innovation Games.

RESULT

A team of five students started their part time job at the province. Once a week they gathered, supported by the province and STUDIO.WHY, to carry out a first version of what we now call a STUDIO.WHY Sprint. Instead of working at a supermarket of restaurant, they now can earn some money and utilize what they learn during their studies, while making sustainable impact at the same time. This was the first form of staffing, leading to the development of our Sprints and traineeships.

"working on making sustainable impact and getting paid too, what a magnificent combination!"

- Laurie

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