YEP – Current Cycle
About the 3rd cycle of our programme
The third cycle of our YEP programme ends at the end of 2022. Following the call for proposals issued by WEC Austria in autumn 2020, candidates expressed their interest in participating and were accepted into the YEP network. The process began with kick-off events at which the topics were developed and groups were formed.
An innovation in the third cycle was the cooperation with research institutions, including IHS, AIT and the Faculty of Finance at the University of Vienna. These partners provided support in finding topics for the work as well as in developing the research topic. In addition, the involvement of these institutes enabled a broader thematic treatment of the research questions. In addition to the topics set by the partners, there was also a leitmotif that determined the thematic orientation.
Future perspectives on the topics “Energy efficiency as a market opportunity for the energy industry”, “Green hydrogen – decarbonisation of industry”, “Climate neutrality/100% renewables – target/consequences/opportunities for Austria’s energy sector”, “Digitalisation offensive of the energy industry”, “Barriers to innovation in the energy sector, business models beyond pure energy supply” and “Oil and gas sector in transition?” were developed in working groups. Group size 4-8 persons.
As in previous cycles, the networking character within the YEP programme played a very important role.
The programme started with one or two kick-off meetings. At these meetings, the participants and the topics were introduced. Regular telephone or web conferences, led by WEC Austria, maintained the flow of information and drew attention to current developments.
Half-yearly network meetings and workshops enabled contact between the groups, which ensured a constant exchange of knowledge.
An additional goal of the third cycle was to involve the board more closely in the work of the groups. This was done through sponsorship or mentoring.
To support the work process, so-called milestones were set. Milestone reports were submitted at regular intervals to assess the basic direction of the work and provide feedback.
In addition, YEP alumni were also involved in the work of the participants. Alumni played an advisory and supportive role. The work is finalised by the presentation of the final report by the participants. At the end of the third cycle, all YEPs will be transferred to the alumni platform.
Young Energy Professionals – Call for Nominations
In the course of the General Assembly on 10 November 2022, the application phase for the new, fourth cycle of our very successful YEP programme was announced. Interested candidates have until the end of January 2023 to apply for participation in WEC Austria’s YEP programme by sending an email with their CV.
Further information on the programme can be obtained directly by e-mail: