Development and Validation of a Training Framework Towards the Integration of Smart Micro-grids into Manufacturing: A Case from the Lifts’ Industry

The overarching aim for sustainable manufacturing systems requires new energy sources, with minimum or zero CO2-footprint. Under this spectrum, Smart MicroGrid systems have emerged as retrofitting sets of Industry 4.0 technologies combining renewable energy and continuous energy monitoring towards improving energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and enhance resiliency to external energetic crises. However, their integration has been challenged by the employees’ lack of required technological skills and technology acceptance. This work presents a three-phase training framework for Smart MicroGrid integration aiming at increasing the skills and competencies of personnel on managing smart micro-grid systems in manufacturing. The first phase involves preliminary learning activities in the form of online learning paths and hands-on training offered as Teaching and testbed assisted Learning Factory sessions. The second phase addresses the enhanced, daily duties that employees are requested to follow in a Smart MicroGrid policy depending on their organizational position. The third phase refers to the overall evaluation of the learning and technological penetration of the framework. The proposed framework has been validated by a training pilot for Smart MicroGrid adoption by a lifts’ manufacturer, presenting high learning penetration, an improved readiness level for technology integration and a more positive attitude towards everyday duty changes.