“Wind Experts” is an educational programme designed to raise awareness among younger generations about the challenge of climate change and to showcase the role of renewable energies in mitigating its effects.
The third edition of “Wind Experts” took place in Viana do Castelo, in collaboration with the Municipality and five local primary schools.
Viana do Castelo, 7 July. Ocean Winds, an international company dedicated to offshore wind energy, created as a 50-50 joint venture by EDP Renewables and ENGIE and the main shareholder and operator of the WindFloat Atlantic project, successfully concluded the third edition of its educational programme “Wind Experts”. The closing ceremony was a lively and engaging event, culminating with the final celebration and the award presentation to the winning school and student group.
Following two successful previous editions, this year the programme gathered more than 150 students from five schools in the region of Viana do Castelo: Escola Básica 2,3 da Abelheira, Escola Básica 2,3 de Carteado Mena, Escola Básica da Foz do Castelo de Neiva, Escola Básica 2,3 Dr. Pedro Barbosa, and Escola Básica e Secundária Pintor José de Brito.
The aim of “Wind Experts” is to raise awareness among younger generations about the global challenge of climate change and the benefits and potential of renewable energies, particularly offshore wind energy, in addressing it. Within this framework, students attended several classes with educational content designed to raise awareness about climate change and effective solutions to mitigate its consequences.
The next stage was a competition among all participating students, where the main challenge was to build a wind turbine model using recycled materials, inspired by the floating offshore wind farm WindFloat Atlantic. This competition encouraged teamwork, creativity, and the development of innovative ideas, ultimately leading to the selection of a winning group.
The closing event and award ceremony, held at the auditorium of the Escola Superior de Saúde of IPVC – Polytechnic Institute of Viana do Castelo, was attended by the OW team, all participating students and teachers, and representatives from the Municipality of Viana do Castelo, through the CMIA (Environmental Monitoring and Interpretation Centre).
The winning group was selected by Ocean Winds’ evaluation committee, which assessed each project based on its design, functionality, creativity, and message. The selected group consisted of four students from Escola Básica 2,3 Dr. Pedro Barbosa, part of the Agrupamento de Escolas de Monserrate. The winning school was awarded a €3,000 voucher for its involvement, while each member of the winning team received an iPad.
In addition, all participating students received a certificate of participation, acknowledging their dedication and involvement in this inspiring initiative that fosters creativity.
The “Wind Experts” initiative is part of Ocean Winds’ commitment to investing in society and in the local communities where it operates, with a particular focus on spreading and promoting knowledge among younger generations. With the support of the Municipality of Viana do Castelo, several social initiatives are currently being implemented in the region.
