To inspire school students to turn to science, technology, and sustainable solutions, the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL) will host the eighteenth "Solar Cup 2026" competition for students of grades 5–12 from all over Latvia on May 23.
The competition offers young people the opportunity to practically learn STEM skills by designing and building vehicle models that run solely on solar energy. Participants form teams and create solar-powered cars or boats in a full-cycle engineering process from idea to functional prototype – they develop the model idea, create a sketch, then choose the materials themselves, construct, test, and improve their vehicle chassis, wheels, and other components.
This approach helps develop not only technical skills but also creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork – essential competencies in today's job market.
"Solar Cup" confirms every year that interest in technology and sustainable solutions is growing among young people. This year, almost a round hundred student teams have applied for the competition, comprising 240 students and more than 60 teachers. Represented is not only Riga and the immediate vicinity of the capital, but also Liepāja, Ventspils, Kuldīga, Jelgava, Valka, Valmiera, Cēsis, Koknese, Ilūkste, and Daugavpils. On the day of the competition, participants will compete with their models in various disciplines, as well as participate in educational activities and lectures on renewable energy resources.
Friends of the event – Port of Riga, Riga Energy Agency, LU Foundation, ISSP UL Found. “Solar Cup 2026” wouldn't be possible without the donation of UL Foundation's Patron Wulf Harder. The competition's cooperation partners – SEB Banka, RIX Riga Airport, Elektrum, Getliņi EKO, Skrīveru saldumi, Eco-Buddy, LACISE project, and FeLow-D project – will provide prizing, together promoting youth interest in science, technology, and sustainability.
