On March 25–26, 2025, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) and University College London (UCL) co-hosted the International Clean Energy Hackathon, held simultaneously in London and Shanghai. Organized by the China-UK Low Carbon College (LCC) and supported by SJTU’s Office of International Affairs, the event brought together 37 students from both universities for a 12-hour online workshop themed “equity in the clean energy transition.”

At the opening ceremony, Prof. Changying Zhao, Dean of LCC, highlighted the importance of global collaboration in addressing climate challenges. Associate Prof. Cheng Tung Chong of LCC chaired the workshop.

Students formed cross-cultural teams to tackle real-world challenges such as just transition for fossil fuel workers, energy access, and financing models for clean energy. Industry experts from organizations including Schneider Electric, Solar Power Glory, Repowering London, and Oil Change International offered guidance through live Q&A sessions as part of a “Living Library.”

After two days of intensive collaboration, the winning team presented a clean lithium battery solution focused on communities near mining sites, using an ESG framework. They will represent both universities at the 2025 Sustainability Leadership Conference in London.

The Hackathon showcased both universities’ commitment to global talent development and cross-border innovation in clean energy.