Three
weeks into its 2023 route, the EnergyDRIVE initiative continues to make its way
across the country’s green energy map, leaving a lasting impact on young minds,
fostering enthusiasm for renewable energy, and inspiring the next generation.
Participating
schools in the Eastern Cape are spread across Amathole, Sarah Baartman, Chris
Hani Districts, and Nelson Mandela Bay. They include Sipho Camagu High, Lonwabo
High, Cookhouse High, Siyaphakama High, Molteno High, Joe Slovo Freedom High, Lungisa
High, and Cookhouse Secondary.
The
distinctive yellow bus set out from Cape Town, first heading north and
eventually arriving in the Eastern Cape. Here, it was greeted with enthusiasm
by hundreds of students. As it continued its journey through this area, it
stopped at eight schools situated in remote communities all of them near the
province’s abundant wind farms.
Reaching
schools falling across quintiles one to four, the mobility of this edu-tainer
renders it ideal to reach communities in isolated areas. These communities are
often located in areas that are not easily accessible and learners do not
readily have access to opportunities and information about these technologies.
Niveshen
Govender, CEO of the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) said, “Community
development and education are at the heart of this initiative. The
demonstrations, experiential learning, and tools for implementing energy-saving
habits are all on the agenda this year. Our goal is to empower young minds with
knowledge about climate change, energy efficiency, and sustainable living as
well as to promote skills training courses in green energy.”
Now
on its final leg, the bus will make its first stop in the Western Cape’s
picturesque town of Ceres, for the last three days of this year’s trip,
incorporating a further six schools, bringing the total to 21 schools and an
estimated 2 000 learners.
Without
a doubt, the highlight for the learners was the unforgettable experience of
getting to visit a wind farm, in several communities along the route.
“It
has been thrilling to see learners experience the magnificence of turbines on
their visits to wind farms that opened their doors to the next generation,
providing a unique opportunity to learn and experience the power of renewable
energy,” added Govender.
The
EnergyDRIVE features a container with engaging interactive models that enhance the
comprehension of various renewable technologies. These exhibits not only
promote an awareness of renewable energy sources but also address pressing
concerns related to climate change. With a solar roof structure, biogas
digester, photovoltaic panel display, and a solar hot water unit, the
EnergyDRIVE offers valuable insights into the advantages and applications of
renewable energy.
By
the end of this year’s journey (2017-2023), the EnergyDRIVE will have reached
over 7 000 learners in grades 9 to 12, showcasing its significant impact in
promoting renewable energy technologies in outlying communities close to wind
farms and a few solar PV farms across the country.
The
enduring partnership between SAWEA and key institutions, including Durban
University of Technology, South African National Energy Development Institute, and
the Energy and Water Sector Education Training Authority, has been further
strengthened with the inclusion of the Green Youth Network. This partnership emphasises
the commitment to community development, education, and sustainability.
The
EnergyDRIVE is made possible through the support of Independent Power
Producers, particularly the wind farms, and even three solar projects, all of
which eagerly invited the bus to their neighbouring host communities. These IPP’s include Aggeneys Solar, Dorper
Wind Farm, Gibson Bay Wind Farms, Golden Valley Wind, Karusa Wind Farm, Khobab
Wind Farm, Klipheuwel Wind Farm, Konkoonsies II Solar, Loeriesfontein Wind
Farm, Noblesfontein Wind, Nojoli Wind Farm, Perdekraal East Wind Farm, and Soetwater
Wind Farm.
