EnergyDRIVE Embarks on Educational Journey in the Heart of SA’s Renewable Energy Landscape
The 2023 EnergyDRIVE, a renewable energy educational initiative, has begun its journey in the Northern Cape Province, a region at the epicentre of South Africa's renewable energy generation. The province boasts the largest share of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) in wind, solar, and Concentrated Solar Power (CSP), making it a strategic starting point for this year's program.
Commencing its voyage from Cape Town, the edu-tainer is making its way across over 20 rural communities including its outreach to the Eastern and Western Cape provinces. The heart of this programme lies in the communities it serves, with a strong focus on educating and engaging learners.
Having commenced its journey on October 18th with a visit to Aggeneys, a small town located in the Khai Ma Local Municipality in the Northern Cape, learners from Aggeneys High School, Gariep High School, and Prieska High School were among the first to experience the EnergyDRIVE. These schools, situated in close proximity to Aggeneys Solar Farm, Konkoonsies Solar, and MBP Solar were provided with a unique opportunity to explore the world of renewable energy.
The EnergyDRIVE is made possible through the support of IPPs, particularly the wind farms, and even three solar projects, which have eagerly invited the bus to their neighbouring host communities.
Niveshen Govender, CEO of SAWEA, underscores the core objectives of this initiative, stating, "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."
The journey continues to Loeriesfontein, where learners from Loeriesfontein Primary School and Loeriesfontein Hoerskool will have the chance to visit Loeriesfontein and Khobab Wind Farms, offering them a hands-on experience in the realm of renewable energy.
Learners are in for an unforgettable experience as wind farms open their doors to the next generation, providing a unique opportunity to learn and experience the power of renewable energy.
"The EnergyDRIVE's adaptable design is ideally suited to connect with high school learners in the communities that surround wind and solar IPPs in the Northern Cape and other areas of the country. Many of these regions are isolated and might not have ample knowledge about green technologies. Our aspiration is that this hands-on approach will ignite enthusiasm, empower learners, and inspire them to become proactive contributors to the renewable energy sector," adds Govender.
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 the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) and key institutions, including Durban University of Technology (DUT), South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), and the Energy and Water Sector Education Training Authority (EWSETA), has been further strengthened with the inclusion of the Green Youth Network. This partnership emphasizes the commitment to community development, education, and sustainability.
Note:
The EnergyDRIVE features a container with engaging interactive models that enhance comprehension of various renewable technologies. These exhibits not only promote 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.
For more information and updates on the 2023 EnergyDRIVE, please visit https://www.facebook.com/sawindenergy; , https://www.linkedin.com/company/sawea or contact SAWEA on admin@sawea.co.za
