Climate pioneer Louis Palmer inspired attendees during two “Future Days” at HFU.
Two-day event featuring Louis Palmer combines a spirit of adventure, science and the energy transition
Furtwangen University (HFU) enjoyed two extraordinary days focused on climate protection, the energy transition, and future technologies with the “SolarButterfly” by Swiss sustainability pioneer Louis Palmer. On the Furtwangen and Schwenningen campuses, Palmer sparked great interest among students, faculty, high school students, and the general public — demonstrating just how inspiring a pioneering spirit in action can be.
In Furtwangen, in addition to Louis Palmer’s presentations, Professor Christoph Wittwer from the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems in Freiburg enriched the programme. He provided insights into current developments surrounding the energy transition, hydrogen as an energy resource, and innovative technologies that are crucial for a climate-friendly energy future. The combination of Palmer’s hands-on experiences from his round-the-world trip in the solar-powered vehicle and the scientific depth of the Fraunhofer perspective offered guests a broad spectrum — from vision to technically sound solutions.
At the “Future Tables,” visitors engaged in conversation with experts from both research and industry. Representatives from HFU, the Fraunhofer Institute, and other partner companies used concrete projects to demonstrate how sustainability is already being implemented today. For many students, it was an opportunity not only to learn but also to ask questions, discuss ideas and explore potential career paths in the fields of climate protection and energy technologies.
On the Schwenningen campus, in addition to the topics of sustainability, innovation and climate protection, the focus was also on Louis Palmer’s personal story. In his evening lecture, “The World Is Full of Solutions,” he took the audience on a very personal journey − from his trips around the world in a light aircraft or by bicycle. The audience encountered a true adventurer who tangibly conveyed his enthusiasm for the world and its solutions to the room. Using vivid examples, striking images and plenty of humour, Palmer made it clear that the shift toward greater sustainability doesn’t have to mean sacrifice, but rather creativity, courage and a desire for something new.
What resonated particularly well was Palmer’s consistent focus on solutions − instead of dwelling on problems, he highlighted projects and initiatives from around the world where people are already successfully using climate-friendly technologies today. His enthusiasm is contagious − Henriette Stanley, CEO of the economic development agency SBH, announced during the event that she was already in contact with one of the companies presented to explore whether their “Energyfish” system for generating energy in rivers could also be used in the Black Forest. Many participants left the presentations visibly encouraged by the realisation that they themselves could be part of such solution-finding processes — whether through their professional work, through collaborations, or through their own personal involvement.
The event series was made possible through the collaboration of numerous regional stakeholders: the Schwarzwald-Baar-Heuberg Skilled Workforce Alliance; Furtwangen University; the City of Furtwangen; the SBH Economic Development Agency; IG Metall Villingen-Schwenningen; and the SBH Innovation Network. In Furtwangen, the Furtwangen Community Foundation and the Energy Transition Association also supported the event. The participants’ conclusion − the Solar Butterfly’s visit was more than just a spectacular stop on a world tour — it was a vibrant catalyst for a sustainable future in the region.
Further impressions
