From 23–25 September 2025, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Naval Architecture, University of Zagreb (UNIZAG FSB) hosted the 3rd AU–EU Knowledge Exchange. Held at POWERLAB, the event brought together energy experts and researchers from Africa and Europe for a rich programme of training, best practice demonstrations, and policy dialogue.

Participants were introduced to GREENADVISE, the tool developed at UNIZAG to support local and regional authorities in energy system planning. Sunčan Vojvodić and Ivan Prpić presented its development and introduction, and later guided participants through extended training and workshop sessions. These provided both theoretical foundations and practical application of methodologies for energy modelling and planning.

In parallel, the exchange offered an academic perspective through a lecture by Prof. Goran Krajačić, PhD, on Energy Modelling and Planning. His presentation examined the European Union’s energy policy, with an emphasis on Croatia’s approach to the transition towards sustainable and renewable energy sources, and detailed methodologies for modelling local and regional systems and implementing EU directives.

Best practice examples complemented the training. KOER d.o.o., established in 2008 as part of Klimaoprema, presented its role as Croatia’s first energy aggregator, managing the country’s pioneering Virtual Power Plant since 2020. The CRTA project was also introduced, focusing on the establishment of the Regional Centre of Excellence for Robotics as a reference centre for research, development, and educational activities in robotics and artificial intelligence.

The programme also looked ahead at policy pathways and innovation. Under the theme Policy Pathways for Innovation: Shaping Croatia’s R&I Future, the INITIATE project was presented, highlighting how stakeholder collaboration and institutional reform can support European research and innovation. A discussion followed on cross-sector collaboration and policy reform for the green and digital transition. Ivana Ružić Divjak (AMPEU) addressed widening participation in Croatia, reflecting on lessons from Horizon 2020, Horizon Europe, and future perspectives. A dedicated workshop then explored funding opportunities and the design of joint proposals and publications, with a focus on selected Horizon Europe and Life Programme+ calls.

Throughout the event, African organisations played an active role. Representatives from ECREE (ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency), AfriLabs, the Eduardo Mondlane University (UEM), and the Mohamed I University (UMP) contributed to discussions and workshops, bringing forward perspectives from African contexts and reinforcing the exchange’s cross-continental mission.

By blending technical training, policy dialogue, and practical demonstrations, the 3^rd EMERGE AU–EU Knowledge Exchange in Zagreb provided participants with advanced tools, insights, and opportunities for cooperation. The event further strengthened collaboration between African and European institutions and contributed to building the skills and partnerships needed for a fair and sustainable energy transition.

Learn more about the EMERGE project and its toolbox: https://emerge4green-africa.eu/toolbox/