TV article

Sebastian contributes to the energy transition as a trainee Green Energy Storage his shoulders to challenging projects for green energy storage

After studying Applied Physics at Delft University of Technology, energy professional Sebastian Wendt (28) began searching for a suitable job in the energy transition. During his online search, he stumbled upon the energy transition traineeship offered by Talent voor Transitie (TvT). "I knew immediately, 'This is for me.' The opportunity to work on challenging projects at ambitious organizations as an energy transition trainee during a two-year program, try out different roles, and simultaneously work on my personal development made my decision to apply to TvT an easy one."

When Sebastian started at Talent voor Transitie as an energy transition trainee in September 2022, he was able to immediately start working as a project manager at Green Energy Storage (GES) in Breda. GES develops large-scale installations for green energy storage at existing wind and solar farms.

We handle permits, financing, and contracts with suppliers and partners, among other things. Once all that's in place, we also supervise the actual construction of the installation. I'm currently working on a new battery system at a wind farm in the Rotterdam area that supplies energy to approximately 22.000 households. Three years ago, the largest battery system in the Netherlands was installed there.

Due to new technology and the need for larger storage, we are now replacing the system. The old system will remain in use; we are moving it to another location. I was initially GES I was thrown in at the deep end right away; I was given a lot of responsibility from day one, which makes it a challenging and interesting assignment for me. What I'm doing now is focused on the practical side, on project management. In my next assignment, I want to move more towards the investigative and research side. This way, during my two years as an energy transition trainee at TvT, I can explore both sides and then better orient myself for my future career steps.

Added value for an energy transition trainee

Looking ahead, energy storage and the use of batteries will play a huge role in the energy transition. Especially since the Dutch electricity grid is already becoming overloaded. I'm thrilled that TvT is giving me the opportunity to delve into this and contribute directly to impactful energy projects.

Working in the energy sector through Talent for Transition is absolutely invaluable to me. The development program for an energy transition trainee is well-designed, we form a close-knit team with our colleagues, you receive excellent guidance, and you always have someone to rely on if you're struggling. As TvT itself so aptly puts it: "We're a springboard into the energy world." And it truly is!

Guus Bengsch, founder of Green Energy Storage, is very satisfied with the collaboration with Sebastian: "Besides developing the battery project, Sebastian has taken on two tasks to further structure our organization. He focused on the template for professional drawings for the permit application and is helping to further develop our asset management activities. It's very pleasant to work with Sebastian; he's independent, very enthusiastic, and works accurately. We're happy to have him on our team!"