The South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) will partner with the Durban University of Technology and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and embark on an educational road trip with the EnergyDRIVE.

This custom-built truck, said organisers in a statement, was designed to teach rural learners about the benefits and uses of renewable energy technologies and was expected to engage with over 2 500 rural high school learners located close to wind farms.A first of its kind in Africa, the initiative aims to raise awareness of renewable power resources and climate change.

“Participating wind farms will each fund a portion of the road show as well as host field trips for participating learners.” Beyond wind power, the vehicle features a solar roof structure, biogas digester, photovoltaic panel display unit as well as a solar hot water display unit.  The walls of the container are made up of a battery bank, photovoltaic components, a TV and display cupboards, making it an inspirational and experiential teaching aid.

“The mobility of this custom-built vehicle makes it ideal to reach high schools situated within wind farm beneficiary communities. These communities are often located in areas that are not easily accessible and learners often do not have access to information about these technologies,” said Brenda Martin, chief executive of the South African Wind Energy Association.

“The container features attractive interactive demonstration models which assist with understanding a range of renewable technologies.”
The mobile unit is expected to depart Durban on November 3 and arrive in Cape Town on November 13, having spent time in host communities along the way.

The Mercury https://www.iol.co.za/mercury/environment/researchers-take-drive-for-clean-energy-on-the-road-11199151