We’ve recently returned from another brilliant public engagement activity at Green Man Festival, where we joined thousands of visitors in Einstein’s Garden to share the exciting developments happening within offshore renewable energy research and innovation.
Through a range of hands-on activities, we helped festival-goers explore the rapid development of offshore wind, wave and tidal energy over recent years, while introducing some of the engineering concepts behind these technologies in accessible, age-appropriate ways.
Engaging with young people is always a highlight. Some quietly absorb the information, carefully taking everything in, while others arrive with an endless stream of questions. Every year, we’re surprised and delighted by the fresh perspectives and unexpected questions they bring.
Conversations with adult visitors are equally rewarding. Many are delighted and surprised to hear that so much is happening with offshore renewables - taking place in our coasts, the scale of the technologies and the growing contribution that home-grown renewable energy is making to our electricity supply.
One comment left on our feedback board captures the overall feeling:
“Amazing to hear about the innovative solutions with so much thought behind them. I hope we become 100% renewable one day soon ”
The reactions of those we spoke to are a valuable reminder of the value of the research and why public engagement matters. It's a great opportunity to share the good news and encourage other people to become involved in and support the offshore renewable energy sector.
