Recently, the China-EU Institute for Clean and Renewable Energy (ICARE) welcomed a very special “new” lecturer — Chen Hao, a 2014 graduate of the institute. After completing his studies at ICARE, he pursued advanced research and teaching at a renowned European university, gaining extensive international experience and a broad perspective on cutting-edge academic developments. Today, driven by a deep affection for his alma mater and a passion for nurturing future energy professionals, Chen Hao has returned to ICARE. He now teaches a one-week course Introduction to Renewable Energy, bringing fresh vitality to the institute’s academic development and talent training.
Chen Hao’s connection with ICARE began in 2014. Motivated by curiosity and a strong interest in the emerging clean energy sector, he enrolled in the program and began systematic studies in renewable energy. ICARE’s international teaching model, distinguished faculty, and vibrant academic environment gave him a solid professional foundation.
As a student, Chen Hao was not only an active learner in the classroom but also an enthusiastic participant in research and practical projects, showing early promise in renewable energy studies. The rigorous academic standards of his professors, the institute’s global exchange opportunities, and the exposure to frontier research instilled in him a commitment to advancing the energy field and to education itself.
After graduation, his strong academic record earned him a fully funded PhD position in Norway, followed by a tenured faculty position at the University of Twente in the Netherlands. Throughout his years abroad, Chen Hao focused on both teaching and research in renewable energy. He innovated in teaching methods, incorporated the latest international research into his courses, and worked to cultivate students’ global perspectives and innovative thinking. He published extensively in international journals, participated in global academic conferences, and collaborated with leading experts, giving him deep insight into global energy development trends.
Equally important, Chen Hao gained rich cross-cultural teaching experience by working with students from diverse backgrounds, shaping a distinctive teaching style that combines rigor with inclusivity.
“From leaving ICARE to returning here, my role has changed from student to teacher, but my passion for renewable energy and gratitude to my alma mater remain the same,” Chen Hao reflected.
With renewable energy now at the center of the global energy transition, ICARE has made significant contributions by training high-level professionals in the field. Chen Hao hopes to build on this foundation by applying his international experience to strengthen ICARE’s teaching, especially by promoting self-directed learning and entrepreneurial teamwork. His goal is to cultivate more globally minded, innovative energy professionals who can contribute to national and international energy development.
As the instructor of Introduction to Renewable Energy, the very first course for new students, Chen Hao has already introduced new approaches. His classes combine international case studies with interactive teaching to inspire deep reflection and creativity. A highlight of the course — the “entrepreneurial roadshow” — has been especially well received, sparking student enthusiasm and engagement.
With the return of outstanding alumni like Chen Hao, ICARE is poised to reach new heights in renewable energy education, further strengthening Huazhong University of Science and Technology’s role in advancing global energy transition and sustainable development.
