Join Guided Projects Cohort 3!

Student Energy Guided Projects empowers youth-led teams across Canada with the tools, guidance and resources required to develop clean energy solutions in their local communities. Teams will identify challenges in their communities and design, plan, and implement real-world solar photovoltaic (PV) installations to address them.

Cohort 3 (Solar Stream) is now accepting applications!

Apply Now!

Deadline: April 10th, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST

Build Real Solar Solutions. Gain Real Experience.

Guided Projects gives a cohort of global youth the critical early career and project development experiences they need to enter the energy industry and thrive as lifelong problem-solvers. Under the solar stream, successful teams will identify challenges in their communities and design, plan, and implement real-world solar photovoltaic (PV) installations to address them.

Hands-on Experience:

Master the full project lifecycle, from feasibility studies to system commissioning.

Mentorship & Training:

Receive structured training, expert mentorship, and project funding up to $15,000!

Community Impact:

Deliver a real solar energy project that creates lasting change.

Apply Now!

“Cohort 3 is now accepting team-based applications. Individual applications are not accepted — you must apply as a team of 3–5 members.”

Is Your Team Ready to Apply?

Individual Requirements

Be 18–30 years old as of March 2026
Be fluent in English (program delivery language)
Commit 5–8 hours per week (April 2026 – August 2027)
Have reliable computer/internet access for virtual sessions
Demonstrate a genuine interest in clean energy, sustainability, or community development
Have a background/interest in climate, energy, or international cooperation

Team Requirements

Consist of 3–5 members (No individual applications)
Have an identified or prospective project host site (e.g., school, community centre, farm, non-profit facility)
Demonstrate complementary skills (a mix of technical, project management, financial, and communication capabilities)

Your 18-Month Journey
(April 2026 – August 2027)

See What Past Cohorts Have Built

Click here to see more SEGP projects

Spotlight 1: Spark Source Consulting (Cohort 2)

	Partner: BeetBoxFarm (Organic Farm, Ottawa)
	The Project: Installed a 5 kW solar array on a chicken coop roof to offset electricity costs and emissions.
	The Impact: Generated $35,000 in returns for the farm, allowing them to reinvest in regenerative farming and train new farmers. Led by Sonia Vinogradova & Joe Workentin.
	Media: [Instagram Reel (Beetbox Coop) https://www.instagram.com/reel/DGy6y0gytiC/?igsh=MXZoN3hxemZiN3BxMg%3D%3D

Spotlight 2: Solar EV Team (Cohort 2)

	Partner: University of Manitoba / Winnipeg Trails
	The Project: A 2.18 kW solar installation for the Winnipeg Mobilibox (a solar-powered shipping container).
	The Impact: Generates over 2,500 kWh/year (triple the needed energy). Enhances accessibility, inclusion, and Indigenous cultural learning.
	Media: Embed [CBC News Instagram Reel Video Placeholder] https://www.instagram.com/reel/DG67sklN_iq/

Hear From Our Alumni

Kareem Youssef

UofC Energy Team (Cohort 2)

"I have been involved with Student Energy since I started university in 2021, where I co-founded the University of Calgary Chapter. Since then, I have worked with a brilliant team of students to build our brand on-campus and to deliver events involving students, industry and community leaders in Alberta. Through this work as president, I was able to meet the Siksika Housing team and learn about the important role that Indigenous people play in securing a sustainable energy future. The Student Energy Guided Projects Program is where I was able to combine the technical skills I gained at university and the network I built in Alberta to deliver the Siksika Housing Solar Project. With the guidance and mentorship of the SEGP team, our project team was able to raise additional funds through the ATCO Community Energy Fund and, therefore, increasing our project scope by a whopping 71%!! This experience laid a foundation for our student group and provided a scalable template that we can use for future community projects."

Habiba Mahmoud

Solar EV Team (Cohort 2)

The Student Energy Guided Projects (SEGP) program has been an amazing opportunity to dive into the energy sector and entrepreneurship. I’ve learned so much from the course modules and the hands-on application through design, modeling, and planning. Leading a team, managing budgets, and building relationships with stakeholders and funders have been incredibly valuable experiences. The program coordinators have been so supportive, empowering us every step of the way, which has made this journey even more impactful.

Sonia Vinogradova

Spark Source Consulting (Cohort 2)

Sonia is a lifelong advocate for sustainable solutions that help everyone lead greener, happier lives. That's why she took on a guided project with Student Energy this year and installed a 5kWh array on a local farm! Sonia's determination took this project to the finish line in just one year as she managed different stakeholder interests with the farm's busy harvesting schedule. With the solar panels installed, the organic farm is able to secure stable energy prices and lower its carbon footprint. The community also learned about the project at the showcase event Sonia organized! Supporting local agriculture is key to building resilient food systems in the face of climate change.

Frequently Asked Questions

To thrive in this year-long program, successful applicants should demonstrate strong teamwork skills, time management, adaptability, and a commitment to collaboration. As the program requires working with a diverse group of peers over the course of a year, qualities such as effective communication, problem-solving, and resilience in the face of challenges are key. Applicants must also be able to commit to the program’s timeline and actively engage with their teams throughout the duration of the project.

At the moment, the Guided Projects program is focused solely on solar photovoltaic (PV) stream. We support small-scale projects that harness solar energy to address local energy needs and create sustainable solutions.

Examples of supported projects include solar PV installations for schools, community centers, and healthcare facilities, as well as solar-powered solutions for off-grid or remote areas. We also welcome innovative approaches that integrate solar energy with other technologies to improve energy access or community resilience. Projects should aim to have a measurable impact and serve as models for future clean energy initiatives.

To start, fill out the Expression of Interest (EOI) form available on our website. When we are ready to launch a new cohort, those who submitted an EOI and meet the criteria will be invited to formally apply.

It’s important to note that due to evolving funder requirements and project considerations, not all submissions may move forward. However, we encourage all interested teams to submit their EOI, as this will give you the best chance of being considered when opportunities arise. Once your application passes the screening process, you’ll become part of the upcoming cohort and receive support for your project.

Participants will receive comprehensive mentorship and coaching throughout the program, along with access to a specialized curriculum that focuses on energy systems and project management. This curriculum is designed to provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in developing your solar PV project.

In addition to expert guidance, participants will have access to a variety of tools, templates, and resources that will support every stage of their project development journey, from planning and execution to monitoring and completion. Participants will also receive funding up to 15,000 CAD (for solar stream projects) to execute their project.

Ready to power the future?

Deadline: April 10th, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST

Apply Now

Join Guided Projects Cohort 3!