Industry Challenge: AI Serving Waste-to-Energy Operations
Join us for a 24+ hour hackathon featuring challenges from Wasteer:
📅 Date & Time: Thursday & Friday, 21-22 May 2026, 09:30-16:00
💡 The Industry Challenge 2026
Ready to make waste-to-energy operations smarter, more data-driven, and greener?
This is exactly what our industry partner, Wasteer, aims for. In 2026, efficient waste incineration is more than just burning waste.
During this hackathon, teams will work with real industrial data to optimise the storage, mixing, and preparation of waste for incineration. Participants will tackle one of the most critical aspects of modern waste-to-energy systems: intelligent waste bunker management to maintain stable operations, maximise energy yield, and comply with regulations.
What to expect
- 50 selected participants working in teams
- Hands-on experience with real-world industrial data
- A unique opportunity to combine creativity, data science, and industrial expertise
- An exciting challenges with attractive prizes
What to bring
- Your laptop (fully charged)
- Charger
- Curiosity and good vibes!
- if needed: Lilo & Sleeping Bag
Schedule
Day 1
📍Welcoming Session: Lecture Hall @ TU Darmstadt
📍Coding Sessions: In cooperation with hessian.AI
- 09:30 – 10:00 – Doors open & Registration
- 10:00 – 11:00 – Welcoming session & Challenge Introduction
- 11:15 – 12:30 – Coding Session
- 12:30 – 13:30 – Lunch break
- 13:30 – 18:30 – Coding Session
- Open Consultation Hour with the Wasteer Team
- 18:30 – 20:30 – Dinner Break & Networking
- 20:30 – late – Late-Night Coding Session
Day 2
📍Coding Sessions: In cooperation with hessian.AI
📍Final Pitches & Closing Session: Lecture Hall @ TU Darmstadt
- 08:30 – 9:30 – Breakfast
- 9:30 – 13:00 – Coding Session – Finalise your solution
- Open Consultation Hour with the Wasteer Team
- 13:00 Deadline to Submit the Project Presentation
- 13:00 – 14:00 – Lunch break
- 14:00 – 15:30 Final Pitches & Jury Decision
- 15:30 -16:00 Award Ceremony & Closing Session
Timeline
- Applications opens: Thursday, April 23rd, 2026
- Applications close: Thursday, May 7th, 2026
- Participants notified: Tuesday, May 12th, 2026
- The Industry Challenge is on: Thursday-Friday, May 21st-22nd 2026
♻️Special Goodie: Visit a waste plant on Wednesday, May 20th. There will be a lucky draw from all participants
FAQ
Is participation free?
Yes, participation is free of charge.
Who can participate?
Students and anyone interested in solving the challenge are welcome to participate.
What language will the hackathon be held in?
The jury presentations will be held in English. German- and English-speaking mentors will be available throughout the event to support you.
How do I apply?
You can apply by clicking the “Apply here” button, registering via Luma, and completing the application form.
What are the requirements to apply?
There are no formal requirements. However, we will ask about your previous experience and skills in order to form balanced and well-matched teams.
Do I need a team when I apply?
No, you do not need to have a team before the event. Participants will be assigned to teams, and we will ensure a balanced distribution of skills for each challenge team.
Will food and drinks be provided?
Yes, food, snacks, and drinks will be provided throughout the event.
Do I need to stay overnight?
No, staying overnight is not required. If you live nearby, you are welcome to go home and return the next day.
Questions?
Feel free to reach out to
dscdarmstadt AT gmail DOT com
severine DOT rupp AT hessian DOT ai