EVOSST Demonstrates VR-Based Training for Photovoltaic Installation and Green Skills Development

The EVOSST Horizon Europe project has released a demonstration video presenting its Virtual Reality (VR)-based training environment for photovoltaic panel installation, developed as part of the project’s work on digital reskilling for the green transition.

The VR application has been developed under Task 5.3 of EVOSST, which focuses on the pilot testing of a VR-based reskilling programme and stakeholder feedback. The activity explores how VR can support the development of technical skills in coal-dependent regions transitioning towards a greener economy.

In the virtual environment, trainees follow the PV panel assembly process step by step. They learn to identify and use the appropriate tools, recognise components and carry out the different stages of the process in a simulated setting.

Developed using Unity, the training environment allows trainees to interact with objects and components as they progress through the different stages. This provides a practical way to become familiar with the required tools, components and sequence of tasks within a virtual environment.

The demonstration video provides a closer look at how the EVOSST VR application works, showing both the trainee using the VR equipment and the virtual environment from the user’s perspective. It also shows how users interact with virtual tools and components during the training.

Through this pilot activity, EVOSST is exploring how digital technologies can support skills development and reskilling for the green transition, with a particular focus on coal-dependent regions.

Pilot testing and participant feedback are part of the next phase of the activity, supporting the further development of the VR training environment.

The VR training environment was developed by MetaMind Innovations (MINDS) in collaboration with the University of Western Macedonia and the Regional Development Fund of Western Macedonia, within the framework of the EVOSST project.

The full demonstration video, “EVOSST VR Training: Step-by-Step Photovoltaic Panel Installation in Virtual Reality [DEMO]”, is publicly available on the EVOSST YouTube channel.

About EVOSST

EVOSST (Evaluation and Valorization of Social Services for a Sustainable Transition) is a Horizon Europe research and innovation project that aims to improve the evaluation, monitoring and development of social services across Europe. The project develops innovative life-course impact assessment models, enhanced well-being measures and an expanded Social Return on Investment (SROI) framework to better understand the long-term effects of social services in areas such as healthcare, education, childcare, long-term care and social inclusion. By integrating digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Virtual Reality (VR), EVOSST supports evidence-based decision-making, promotes social inclusion and contributes to more effective, sustainable and user-centred social services.

EVOSST project has received funding under the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under Grant Agreement No 101178789.

Download the press release here: EVOSST Demonstrates VR-Based Training for Photovoltaic Installation and Green Skills Development