Coastal Energy 2020
Published: 30 June 2020
The government’s official data has revealed that renewable energy made up a record-breaking 47 per cent of the UK’s electricity generation in the first three months of this year. An increase in wind power helped to set this new record for clean energy.
Compared with the previous year, offshore wind farms generated 53 percent more renewable energy, and onshore wind generation grew by a fifth. In total, wind power generated 30 per cent of the UK’s electricity in the first quarter of 2020, beating the previous record of 22.3 per cent set in the final months of 2019.*
The UK is on a journey of energy transition towards net-zero by 2050 and you could be part of that journey.
In collaboration with Vattenfall, ScottishPower Renewables, James Fisher Marine Service, EEEGR and CREST, The Ogden Trust has launched an Offshore Wind Research Project for the 2020 Coastal Energy programme.
Aimed at post-16, three briefs are now available to help guide students through an offshore wind research project devised to link with the CREST Gold Award, which is recognised and respected by universities and employers.
The Costal Energy Internship programme is normally available to students at seven affiliated schools and colleges in the Lowestoft, Grimsby, and Barrow-in-Furness areas** – prime locations of the offshore energy sector. However, this year, with the project-based approach, the programme is available to any student interested in developing their understanding of this growth industry, utilising their STEM skills and knowledge, and improving their research and project proficiency.
“The Coastal Energy internship programme has been growing in momentum and impact over the past few years and we didn’t want to lose that initiative when the coronavirus lockdown made work-based placements impossible,” says programme lead John Best. “Instead of the placements, we have developed these three exciting projects that students can carry out in their own time. The students can work towards a CREST Gold award, whilst learning about local industry and building connections with business.”
“We really hope that students will take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about this vital and vibrant industry,” concludes John. “Combined with a CREST Gold award, these projects could make a valuable contribution to a student’s progression, CV and plans, in a summer where circumstances are undoubtably challenging.”
*As reported in The Guardian this month: https://amp.theguardian.com/business/2020/jun/25/renewable-energy-breaks-uk-record-in-first-quarter-of-2020
** For students from schools and colleges already involved in Coastal Energy internships, the registration fee for CREST will be covered by The Ogden Trust, and students will receive a £50 voucher for successfully completing the project. Please speak to your college champion for further information on the additional support available.
Schools and colleges involved in the Coastal Energy internship programme:
- East Coast College
- East Norfolk Sixth Form
- Lowestoft Sixth Form College
- UTC Norfolk
- Ulverston Victoria High School
- Franklin Sixth Form College
- Furness College and Barrow Sixth Form