Knowledge, connection, and transformation

Over the course of 4,5 days in Berlin and surroundings, the Academy takes participants on a climate and energy journey. Starting with a warm-up workshop that fosters connection and exchange, the Academy moves on to visit an innovative energy transition site. From wind farms to green hydrogen plants and energy communities, participants get a hands-on perspective on the roll-out of new green technologies in Germany. Three days are dedicated to intensive seminars, updates and deep-dives on the latest developments in the climate action and energy transition field: Each morning, a high-paced content heavy programme equips participants with state-of-the art knowledge by leading experts in the field. The afternoons focus on turning that knowledge into action through co-creative workshops, where participants tackle challenging case studies, present their solutions, and co-create sustainable futures coached by IKEM’s top moderators. The programme ends on a festive note: A networking barbecue to celebrate the connections made in the growing climate community of the Academy.

Deep-dives

The deep-dive sessions at the IKEM Academy offer expert explorations of interdisciplinary topics—ranging from renewable energy technology and policy developments to economic transformation, just transition, climate litigation, and the use of art and storytelling in environmental advocacy—providing diverse perspectives on the climate challenge. Each session is followed by a moderated discussion, encouraging participants to engage critically with the material, ask questions, and share perspectives. This format facilitates a comprehensive understanding of current issues, highlighting the interconnectedness of various sectors in the pursuit of systemic change. Deep-dives create space for learning, reflection and meaningful exchange.

Expert panels

Expert panels at the IKEM Academy convene professionals from diverse disciplines to discuss pressing climate-related topics. Panels focus on areas such as sustainable urban planning, transnational collaboration, and the intersection of equality and diversity in climate action. These discussions provide a platform for sharing innovative ideas, best practices, and emerging research. Audience engagement is integral, with opportunities for participants to pose questions and contribute to the conversation. This exchange fosters a dynamic learning environment, where varied experiences and expertise converge to explore holistic approaches to sustainability. The panels underscore the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in developing effective and inclusive climate strategies.

Workshops

The interactive workshops are designed to immerse participants in hands-on experiences addressing climate challenges. Design-thinking sessions encourage creative problem-solving, as groups conceptualize sustainable cities, and envision desirable futures. Through role-playing exercises and participatory group-work, attendees delve into case studies from real-life climate and energy challenges: Diving into climate litigation processes, countering NIMBY-ism by fostering social support for renewable energy projects, participating in international climate negotiation simulations, or financing and organising a hypothetical energy-coop. These workshops foster collaborative learning and critical thinking, enabling participants to translate complex concepts into actionable strategies within their professional contexts.

Excursions

The IKEM Academy offers participants the opportunity to explore Berlin’s renewable energy landscape through guided excursions. These site visits showcase innovative local solutions contributing to global climate action. Participants visit operational wind farms, engage with community-driven energy initiatives, and witness firsthand the integration of sustainable practices in urban settings. These excursions provide a tangible context to the theoretical knowledge shared during the Academy, illustrating the real-world application of policies and technologies discussed. By connecting with practitioners and observing successful projects, attendees gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs in the energy transition, fostering inspiration and practical insights to apply in their respective fields.

Networking and Party

The IKEM Academy emphasises the value of community and connection through structured networking events and social gatherings. From the outset, participants engage in activities designed to build relationships, facilitating collaboration and knowledge exchange throughout the programme. Informal interactions during coffee breaks, lunches, and evening events complement the formal sessions, creating a cohesive and supportive environment. The Academy culminates in a celebratory party, offering a relaxed setting to reflect on shared experiences and forge lasting professional connections. These social components are integral to the Academy’s mission, recognizing that meaningful progress in climate action is driven by strong, interdisciplinary networks.

Diversity at the IKEM Academy

At IKEM, we believe that true innovation in the energy transition comes from diverse perspectives. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment, ensuring a gender balance and welcoming participants from all backgrounds, cultures, and disciplines. The challenges of climate change and energy transformation are complex and multifaceted, and it is only through collaboration across different viewpoints that we can develop effective and sustainable solutions.

Diversity is not just a value for us—it’s essential for progress. A wide range of experiences and ideas enriches the conversation and drives creativity, helping us address the interconnected social, economic, and environmental aspects of the energy transition. By embracing diversity, we ensure that our solutions are equitable, inclusive, and adaptable for the global community.

Programme

Knowledge, connection, and transformation

Deep-dives

Expert panels

Workshops

Excursions

Networking and Party

Diversity at the IKEM Academy