Around 40 pupils from Fraserburgh Academy spent two days learning how to design and plan their own renewable projects, guided by experts already working in the industry. The course was delivered by 3DW and a team from Muir Mhòr Offshore Wind Farm, a pioneering project which is currently on track to be built off the Aberdeenshire coast.
Working in teams, the S3 pupils were given the chance to step into the shoes of renewable energy professionals tasked with getting a new project off the ground. Each pupil was given a defined role in the project, before designing the layout of their wind farms using 2D maps and bespoke 3D computer software. They had to consider issues such as turbine size, power output, financial viability, and how to connect their projects to the National Grid.
Once the pupils had explored their designs using an Oculus Rift virtual reality headset, they pitched their projects to their teachers and the Muir Mhòr team, competing for the best overall design. As well as STEM learning, the course helped the young people develop important skills such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving.
The course was made possible by Developing the Young Workforce (DYW) North East, which bridges the gap between industry and education. The initiative is part of Muir Mhòr’s commitment to enhancing the skills of the Scottish offshore wind workforce at all levels, starting with pupils of school age.
One of the world’s first commercial scale floating offshore wind projects, Muir Mhòr is on track to be built off the Aberdeenshire coast, approximately 63km from Peterhead. Once operational, the wind farm will be able to generate up to 1 GW of clean power, enough to provide electricity for the equivalent of up to 1.2 million homes every year.
“We had such a brilliant time at Fraserburgh Academy, and it was great to see how well the session was received by both pupils and staff” said Rachel O’Donnell, onshore consents managers for Muir Mhòr Offshore Wind Farm. “The young people were really engaged throughout, and we were impressed with the different, creative ideas they had for ensuring their wind farm projects were successful. The revolution in floating offshore wind is all about the future, and young people are passionate about being part of the national drive for clean energy and net zero. We want to ensure that the once-in-a-lifetime economic opportunity presented by offshore wind is realised, helping to create a thriving, innovative, and sustainable green economy for current and future generations.”
As well as the partnership with Fraserburgh Academy, the Muir Mhòr team is also working with Mintlaw Academy to provide practical activities for students enrolled in the Girls in Energy course. This initiative aims to offer young women real-world exposure to the energy industry.
If its consent applications are approved by the Scottish Government and Aberdeenshire Council, Muir Mhòr could start generating clean and renewable power in the early 2030s.
Muir Mhòr is a 50/50 joint venture between Fred Olsen Seawind and Vattenfall, both having an established track record in Scotland. Working together, both companies are committed to securing Scotland’s energy future and green economy.
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