Free Online Program to Earn Professional Badges in Geospatial Data Analysis

The Open University offers free Energy Access Explorer proficiency badges for people interested in geospatial analysis and sustainable energy planning. The badges are completed through OpenLearn Create, where learners can start at any time; the page gives no application deadline.

About the Energy Access Explorer Proficiency Badges

The course collection lists five digital badges: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Associate Trainer and Lead Trainer. The learning focuses on using Energy Access Explorer (EAE), configuring and integrating geospatial datasets, conducting spatial multi-criteria analysis and applying the results to energy planning and policy. The page displays a one-hour study time and an intermediate level. However, the evidence and experience required vary considerably by badge.

The Bronze badge recognizes basic practical experience. Applicants need to have completed an intermediate-level, in-person EAE training course or an equivalent course, configure datasets correctly in the platform, and submit a project report or modelling case study. The evidence listed includes proof of training, a shared EAE analysis link showing selected layers and filters, and links to materials produced during the course, such as a report, publication, poster, policy brief, assessment or blog.

The Silver badge is for applicants with more substantial practical experience. Its requirements include applying inclusive energy-planning principles, integrating and configuring datasets, conducting complex multi-criteria analysis across scenarios, interpreting policy implications and preparing a data-governance and sustainability plan. The page describes one year of EAE work or project experience, or an MSc thesis, peer-reviewed paper or published project output using EAE. It asks for one of the specified outputs and a reference letter from an academic or project supervisor highlighting two years’ experience.

The Gold badge recognizes expert-level work. Applicants need two years of EAE work or project experience, or a PhD plus one year of project experience, and must demonstrate at least two listed skills. These include improving modelling methods, managing complex geospatial energy models, advanced coding and debugging, and translating modelling results into actionable policy recommendations. Listed evidence options include a CV, links to two relevant publications or policy papers as lead author, or a conference presentation alongside a relevant publication or policy paper.

The trainer badges focus on delivering EAE training. Associate Trainer applicants need at least a Silver badge, experience independently leading a full training programme and newly created training materials. Lead Trainer applicants need a Silver badge, previous Associate Instructor experience, the ability to independently design and lead a full training programme, comprehensive course materials and the specified endorsements. Their evidence includes a teaching portfolio, a CV and an evaluation or letter where required.

Learning outcomes include identifying energy-access gaps, supporting data-driven planning, communicating spatial insights for policy and investment, and promoting open-data collaboration. Browse other competitions and awards, or explore opportunities with no deadline.

Who Should Apply

The badges suit learners and practitioners interested in using geospatial data for energy-access planning, as well as people who already have practical EAE experience and want to demonstrate their skills. The higher-level badges are intended for applicants with more advanced modelling, project or teaching experience. Applicants should review the evidence requirements for their chosen badge before enrolling.

Key Highlights

• Five badges: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Associate Trainer and Lead Trainer.
• Free, self-paced learning and digital badges.
• Online enrolment through OpenLearn Create; learning can start at any time.
• The page lists one hour of study and an intermediate level.
• Applicants must create a free account, sign in and enrol to access the activities.