Sunny Solar Bank Wins WISE Innovation Challenge | Upcoming Energies

The NOVA-Galp WISE innovation challenge, a dynamic initiative aimed at fostering multidisciplinary collaboration among students from all faculties of NOVA University, has successfully concluded with a focus on energy-related topics. This challenge, jointly organized by NOVA University and Galp, sought to inspire students to develop innovative solutions addressing the pressing challenges in the energy sector, leveraging their diverse academic backgrounds.

On June 4th, the competition reached its final presentations, where a panel of judges convened to assess the groundbreaking ideas presented by the competing teams. The jury was comprised by NOVA’s pro-rector, Júlia Seixas, and representatives from some of Galp’s key departments, including João Ribeiro from Open Innovation, Pedro Ferreira from Commercial Innovation, and Mafalda Vasquez from the People Team. 

After careful deliberation, the jury awarded the first place to the "Sunny Solar Bank" team, a group of students representing NOVA SBE (School of Business and Economics), NOVA FCT (Faculty of Sciences and Technology), and NOVA FCSH (Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities). The winning presented its "energy bank" concept, which seamlessly integrates solar energy production and storage with sophisticated arbitrage algorithms. This innovative solution not only addresses the growing demand for renewable energy but also enhances the efficiency and profitability of energy storage systems.

In recognition of their achievement, the "Sunny Solar Bank" team was awarded a job shadowing experience at Galp, providing them with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on industry experience and insights into the energy sector. Additionally, the team received tickets to the European Innovation Academy, an event known for its role in nurturing entrepreneurial talent.

Through initiatives like this, NOVA and Galp are empowering the next generation of innovators to contribute to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.