ERSTE Stiftung supports Next Generation Energy and Climate Leaders in Ukraine, collaborating with Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin

We would like to inform you that the Green Deal Ukraїna, in close partnership with the Kyiv School of Energy Policy and the Florence School of Regulation, has launched its Pro Green Deal: Spring Edition program to boost the next generation of Ukrainian and Moldovan energy and climate decision-makers. We are pleased to announce our new partnership with the ERSTE Foundation, which supports the program's implementation.

The European Green Deal provides a framework for achieving climate neutrality in the EU by 2050, empowering national decision-makers to lead the transition to clean energy. This involves strengthening national capacities and supporting access to necessary resources for a successful transition. With the European Council's recent decision to initiate Ukraine's accession negotiations, there is an urgent need to empower Ukrainian decision-makers for this process, particularly in energy and climate.

The course Pro Green Deal: Spring Edition, launching in mid-March 2025, is designed to support this goal. The training program page allows you to apply for the program or share it with interested colleagues.

The program offers:

• Intensive course focusing on the European Green Deal and its impact on energy reforms
• Mentoring sessions with industry leaders
• Certificate from GDU partners
• Opportunity to join the energy community through high-level events such as the Green Deal Ukraїna conference in Kyiv.

Yana Barinova, Program Director for European Policies and Ukraine at ERSTE Foundation, notes that “Participation in the Green Deal Ukraїna’s Pro Green Deal: Spring Edition program is part of our commitment to empowering Ukraine’s path toward a sustainable future, even in the face of the devastating destruction of critical infrastructure caused by war. We aim to support individuals and communities with the knowledge and tools needed to adopt modern, green processes by supporting training and capacity-building activities in energy transition. Despite these immense challenges, now is a crucial time to focus on the future—on rebuilding with resilience and hope, paving the way for a cleaner, healthier Ukraine for future generations.” 

“Working with ERSTE Stiftung is an honour for our project and will help us enhance our action for the next generation of leaders in Ukraine even faster and further” says Susanne Nies, Project Lead of the Green Deal Ukraїna project at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin.

Green Deal Ukraїna (GDU) is a four-year project started on 01.06.2023, implemented by HZB and funded by BMBF. It aims to set up a Kyiv-based Energy and Climate Think Tank to support Ukrainian governmental institutions, policymakers, experts, and society in making future-proof energy and climate policy decisions ahead of full EU membership.

Partners of the program:

The Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie (HZB) is one of the world's leading institutions researching advanced solutions for a climate-neutral society. Renowned globally for pioneering work in developing photovoltaic technology, HZB is also esteemed for its research and expertise in batteries and green hydrogen conversion. HZB works closely with other research institutions, universities, and industry partners worldwide to tackle complex scientific challenges. HZB is a member of the Helmholtz Association, Germany's largest research organisation.

ERSTE Foundation creates social, economic, and cultural infrastructure and innovation for a changing Europe. We empower initiatives for change and contribute to civil society development and regional progression. As a core shareholder of Erste Group, ERSTE Foundation secures the independent future of one of the largest financial services providers in Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe.

The Florence School of Regulation (FSR) is a renowned center of excellence for independent discussion and knowledge exchange, dedicated to enhancing the quality of European regulation and policy. FSR provides academic research, training, and policy events across key sectors, including Energy, Climate, Transport, and Water & Waste.

The Kyiv School of Energy Policy (KSEP) is an independent, advanced educational platform in the energy field focused on enhancing the expertise of energy professionals. Through specialised programs and courses, KSEP provides high-quality training to equip professionals involved in or preparing for roles in Ukraine’s energy reform and development.

 Together, we can amplify the impact of this program and empower more Ukrainian and Moldovan individuals to contribute to sustainable energy and climate solutions.