During the 2024 Galway Science & Technology Festival over 2,000 primary and secondary school students across Ireland participated in a STEM education programme on renewable energy and climate. The initiative, which is in its first year, has been made possible through community funding from SSE Renewables and Greencoat Renewables – co-owners of Galway Wind Park.
During October, schools across Galway, Monaghan and Cavan received STEM kits with all the materials needed for engaging experiments, demonstrations and project work designed to educate children on the science behind renewable energy. Students from Moycullen National School who participated in the programme showcased their findings at the Galway Science and Technology Festival Exhibition Day which took place on Sunday, 10 November at the University of Galway campus.
The programme has been partly funded by the 2024 Galway Wind Park Major Projects Fund, which supports community projects within 20km of Galway Wind Park. The Galway Board of Science & Technology was awarded €38,000 to develop the programme after applying to the fund earlier this year.
An additional €33,000 of funding has also come from the 2024 Cavan and Monaghan Community Benefit Fund. The Cavan and Monaghan Fund distributes wind-powered funding on behalf of SSE Renewable wind farms in the region.
Galway Wind Park is one of Ireland’s largest and best performing wind farms, with a gross capacity of 108MW generating renewable energy to the surrounding communities.
Commenting on the educational initiative, Vicky Boden of SSE Renewables stated: “We believe that inspiring the next generation is essential for a sustainable future. This programme not only equips students with valuable STEM skills but also empowers them to become advocates for renewable energy and climate action.”
David Dunne, Asset Manager for Greencoat Renewables, praised the programme, stating: “Investing in education is vital for fostering innovation in the renewable energy sector. We’re excited to see how these young minds will contribute to a greener future, and we are proud to support this initiative that bridges the gap between learning and real-world application of renewable energy.”
Anne Murray, Festival Manager at the Galway Board of Science & Technology commented on receiving the funding stating: “This vital funding will help us inspire the next generation to take an interest in STEM and tackle climate change through innovative renewable energy solutions. We couldn’t think of a more fitting source of funding given the cutting-edge work SSE Renewables and Greencoat are doing in this space.”
