AGGENEYS HIGH SCHOOL LEARNERS WELCOME THE ENERGYDRIVE BUS AS IT ARRIVES IN THE NORTHERN CAPE
The EnergyDRIVE, an educational initiative by the renewable energy industry, has begun its journey in the Northern Cape Province, arriving in the small town of Aggeneys, the first stop on its trip across South Africa’s green energy map.
Commencing from Cape Town, the 2023 EnergyDRIVE bus arrived on Wednesday, 18 October, at Aggeneys High School, where excited learners gathered around the iconic yellow “edu-tainer” bus. The heart of this programme is to engage and educate, with a strong focus on inspiring the next generation.
Yandi Mac Donald, a Grade 9 learner at Aggeneys High School, shared her thoughts, saying, “I found it fascinating to discover the various methods of energy production and to understand the workings of the entire system. The EnergyDrive’s team was dedicated to explaining the workings of modern energy, providing significant benefits to students passionate about Physics and Technology.”
This initiative is made possible by partnering with Independent Power Producers like Aggeneys Solar and Konkoonsies II Solar, whose support enabled the visit to this school, nestled in proximity to Aggeneys Solar, offering its learners a unique opportunity to explore the captivating world of renewable energy.
Celiwe Mabaso, Senior Social Performance Manager at BTE Renewables, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The EnergyDRIVE bus gives us a fun and interactive way to introduce green technologies to our grade 8 to 10 learners and communities. We’re hoping that this interactive initiative will spark interest in learners and motivate them to actively be part of the renewable energy space.”
The Northern Cape Province boasts the largest share of IPPs in wind, solar, and Concentrated Solar Power in the country. This makes it an ideal starting point for this year’s programme, aligning perfectly with the region’s commitment to sustainable energy.
By the end of this year’s trip (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.
This programme is a 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), and has been further strengthened with the inclusion of the Green Youth Network this year. This partnership emphasizes the commitment to community development, education, and sustainability.
The EnergyDRIVE features a container with engaging interactive models that enhance the 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.