Piloting Course Overview
FEN Research successfully launched the first piloting course within the Hydrogen Centres of Vocational Excellence project in Austria for students of the HTL Kramsach Glass and Chemicals. Hosted at the Green Energy Centre Europe in Innsbruck, the course was complemented by a study visit to the MPREIS hydrogen production site, offering students a combination of theoretical knowledge and real-world application.
Introduction to EU Research and Innovation
The programme gave students an insight into the current state of research and innovation in the European hydrogen sector. Participants gained insight into how European initiatives are advancing hydrogen technologies, developing skills, and encouraging collaboration between education, research, and industry.
Hydrogen Fundamentals and Reconstruction of the Energy System
The course covered the key concepts of the hydrogen value chain, such as the production, storage and utilisation of green hydrogen. Students explored electrolysis processes and the energy requirements involved, as well as the role of hydrogen in sector coupling and renewable energy integration. The transition from fossil-based systems to renewable energy sources, such as the sun, water and wind, was presented as a fundamental aspect of the future energy landscape.
Hydrogen in Mobility and MPREIS Site Visit
A significant part of the course focused on the role of hydrogen in sustainable mobility, with particular attention to fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). Students were introduced to the principles of fuel cell technology, where hydrogen is converted into electricity to power electric motors, producing only water vapour as a by-product.
The training covered key components of FCEVs, including hydrogen storage tanks, fuel cell stacks, battery systems, and electric drivetrains. Students learned how these components interact to deliver efficient and zero-emission mobility solutions. Compared to battery electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered vehicles offer distinct advantages, particularly for long-distance travel, heavy-duty transport, and applications requiring short refuelling times.
After the introduction to hydrogen mobility, the students visited the MPREIS hydrogen site, where they experienced a fully operational green hydrogen production facility. This demonstrated how hydrogen is produced via electrolysis, stored, and used in energy-intensive industrial processes such as heating, cooling, and food production.
Survey Results – HTL Kramsach Students
The survey results from the HTL Kramsach pilot course show an overall positive evaluation. Out of 15 respondents, 60 % rated the content as exactly right, and 80 % found the material sufficient and well explained. Meanwhile, 93.3 % reported that the content was partly new to them, suggesting that the course successfully expanded their existing knowledge. In terms of career relevance, 26.7 % of students identified interesting job opportunities in the hydrogen sector, while 46.7 % remained uncertain, suggesting that future courses could emphasise hydrogen-related career pathways more strongly.