In WS 2025/2026, DTI collaborated with the EIZ to expose BTU students attending the “Communication of Science & Technology Module” to innovations which are being developed at the Energy Innovation Center at the BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg, and to enable insights into how they contribute to and support Germany’s sustainability transformation. Objective is to use this topic as the focus for hands-on practical application of the science communication concepts which students had learnt in the module for their project work. Two labs from EIZ participated in the collaboration namely the Electric Power Systems Lab (Grid Simulator) as well as the Energy Storage & Conversion Lab (Green Hydrogen).  

Besides guest lectures by representatives from the two EIZ labs as part of the module during the semester, students also had the opportunity to gain practice experience with both research labs during technical tours of their facilities.

• The tour of the Grid Training Simulator allowed participants to experience a digital, highly dynamic representation of modern energy distribution networks. Realistic scenarios demonstrated how fluctuations in renewable energy sources, grid bottlenecks, and disruptions can be simulated and evaluated. Students also gained insight into how the simulator is used to scientifically analyze the technical challenges of energy system transformation and to test new solutions.
• During the tour of the Hydrogen Lab, participants gained insights into current research on the production, storage, and use of hydrogen. Researchers also provided information regarding experimental setups, safety protocols, and the laboratory's role in future sustainable energy systems. Students were also able to examine equipment, measuring instruments, and test environments up close and to ask questions about ongoing projects.

As part of their assignments, each project group then developed a short (2min) science communication video focusing on either the Grid Simulation Lab or the Green Hydrogen Lab. Task was to develop a video to expose, explain and draw awareness/interest to this topic to one of the following audience groups:

• Students who are potential candidates as working students, student research assistants and/or for study projects, bachelor and master thesis at EIZ;
• Businesses who are potential investors and/or who are interested in a collaboration with EIZ.

Some selected videos which the students have developed are shared here. Have a look and see if you can identify if they’re targeted at students or businesses!

IMPORTANT: Please note that the science communication videos have been developed by BTU students as part of their project work in the module. The students are wholly responsible for the content of their videos. Neither DTI nor EIZ is responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information and references which are being utilized by the students in their videos.