Spring School CEAD 2026
Rethinking Electrification: Powering the Electrified Everything
3-8 May, 2026 | Apply by 15 Feb, 2026
Hasselt University, Campus Diepenbeek, Belgium
- Upcoming events
The fifth edition of CEAD will turn its spotlight on a theme that sits at the very heart of the energy transition: electrification. The reason is simple: we finally have renewable energy that is both affordable and scalable. Solar and wind can be rolled out quickly, and when we use electricity, we use energy more efficiently—just think of electric cars or heat pumps. What is even more exciting is that electrification is now reaching into places where it once seemed impossible, from heavy transport to industry. That is why CEAD 2026 will place electrification at the centre stage.
Together, we will explore its many dimensions, including electricity production and distribution, energy storage, smart grids, and the role of AI and digital tools in maintaining these systems’ reliability and flexibility. In doing so, CEAD also comes full circle. The first four editions explored materials, waste management, industry, and heavy industry. Now, we return to materials and production, but with a fresh perspective—how electrification can transform them and, in turn, our energy future.
Participants will collaborate in international, interdisciplinary group projects and take part in panel discussions, helping to develop their communication skills and increase awareness of the global importance of decarbonization. The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and tools necessary to contribute effectively to the transition to a zero-carbon economy.
Key details and registration:
The Spring School will be held at Hasselt University (Belgium) from Sunday, 3 May (evening), to Friday, 8 May 2026. A virtual component will follow, and is to be completed by 20 May 2026. The program will be conducted in English.
The application deadline is 15 February 2026, and notification of acceptance is expected by the end of February 2026. The program is open to students pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineering and science fields. Selection will be based on a motivation letter and academic background.
This Summer School is an Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme organised by the Faculty of Engineering Technology of Hasselt University in collaboration with KU Leuven and the EURECA-PRO network. Eligible students may apply for an Erasmus+ short-term mobility grant through their home universities.
For more information and to apply, please visit the dedicated page CEAD 2026 at Hasselt University.
Objectives
Upon completion of CEAD 2026, participants will gain:
- New insights into the position (and limitations) of efficiency and renewables on the road to carbon reduction.
- New concepts and approaches that can be used in the development of solutions for carbon reduction.
- New knowledge on how AI can contribute in a sustainable way.
- New insights in the green optimisation of materials, production and processes in different fields of industry.
- Fresh perspectives on how effective policymaking can accelerate the energy transition.
In addition, participants will have strengthened:
- Their intercultural communication skills and critical thinking through international teamwork.
- Their awareness of the global importance and civic responsibility associated with reducing the carbon footprint.
