EirGrid highlights the role of engineers in offshore wind for Ireland’s energy future in Waterford schools

Students in Waterford were recently given an insight into the renewable energy sector after meeting with representatives from EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland’s electricity grid, to mark STEPS Engineers Week recently.

The workshops, which took place at Ard Scoil Na Mara, in Tramore, and De La Salle College in Waterford, saw students and their teachers engage in a presentation and activities to help develop their awareness of energy consumption, offshore wind and discover how they can lead the charge in their communities when it comes to conserving energy.

They also learned about how EirGrid is playing a key role in decarbonising Ireland’s energy system, by delivering critical infrastructure to support Government targets, including local projects like Powering Up Offshore – South Coast.

The Powering Up Offshore - South Coast project, led by EirGrid, will see the delivery of grid transmission infrastructure including offshore substations and underwater cables, to connect offshore renewable energy to points on the onshore grid along the south coast, including county Waterford.

Community Liaison Officer at EirGrid and former student of De La Salle College Eoghan O’Sullivan spoke to more than one hundred students, outlining the vital role of engineers, and future opportunities available in the sector.

“Offshore wind offers an exciting opportunity for study and careers for students who enjoy learning about energy, sustainability and engineering,” said Mr O’Sullivan.

“As part of the national climate action plan, eighty percent of Ireland’s electricity needs to come from renewable sources in the coming years. A central pillar of this effort will be the connection of 5 GW of offshore generation. Projects like Powering Up Offshore – South Coast, will require a steady pipeline of future talent equipped with the knowledge, skills and passion to maintain this infrastructure.

“It’s fantastic to see such enthusiasm from the young people here today. Hopefully interactions like these will encourage a lifelong interest in energy and engineering.”

EirGrid’s engineering team spans diverse disciplines, including civil, electrical, mechanical and environmental.