Marlene is studying Spatial Planning with a focus on Renewable Energies at TU Dortmund and works as a working student at ABO Energy. There, she applies her academic knowledge directly in practice and supports the team in developing sustainable energy projects.
Between Planning and Practice: Marlene About Her Work at ABO Energy
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Marlene
What are you currently studying and what is your role at ABO Energy?
I’m studying for a Master’s degree in Spatial Planning at the Technical University of Dortmund, specialising in Renewable Energies. Alongside my studies, I work at ABO Energy, where I support both project managers and site managers with various tasks. This allows me to apply what I’ve learned in university directly to real-world situations and gain fascinating insights into the different phases of project development – from the initial idea right through to implementation on site.
What are your tasks – and what do you enjoy most about them?
My tasks are very varied: I’m involved in projects from acquisition through planning and approval to commissioning. I support the team, for example, with site analyses and the preparation of planning documents. What I find particularly exciting is that I get to explore a wide range of topics, which helps me develop a comprehensive understanding of the entire project development process. What I enjoy most is constantly learning new things and seeing how an initial idea eventually becomes a real project.
How does your work contribute to the energy transition?
Through my work at ABO Energy, I make a direct contribution to the energy transition. I’m involved in the planning and implementation of wind and solar farms as well as battery storage projects – all of which are key components of a sustainable energy supply. It’s incredibly motivating to know that our projects don’t just exist on paper, but actually help make energy provision more climate-friendly in the long term.
Have you already worked on specific projects?
Yes, I’ve mainly been involved in projects in North Rhine-Westphalia and Lower Saxony – in the fields of photovoltaics, wind energy, and battery storage. I’ve had the chance to accompany different phases of these projects and experience the challenges and opportunities that arise at each stage. It’s a great feeling to see how the projects gradually take shape. One particularly exciting moment was capturing drone footage after a site was completed and seeing the finished project from a whole new perspective.