An historic tide mill in Suffolk, England, is to install a micro hydropower system in a bid to educate and provide activities around STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) themes for the many students who visit.
The micro-generator to be installed at Woodbridge Tide Mill will take its energy from the Crown Wheel Lay Shaft in the Mill. It will be coupled to outputs such as phone chargers, a light bulb and a voltmeter so visitors can see the electricity generated.
Key Stage 1,2, and 3 students – who range in age from 5 to 14 – will have accompanying materials to explain the process, the importance of sustainable energy sources and there will be hands-on activities such as simple circuit building.
Tide Mill Education Lead: Heather Sheehan commented: “It is paramount that educators begin to teach children the importance of renewable energy sources and sustainability and these sessions will support teachers to do just that.’
“The Trustees of Woodbridge Tide Mill have declared a Climate Emergency and stand alongside Woodbridge Town Council and East Suffolk District Council in their ambitions to help build awareness of the importance of adopting sustainable energy sources,” added Woodbridge Tide Mill Charitable Trust Chair, John Carrington. “We hope this project will show visitors sustainable ways that energy can be generated and reconsider existing behaviours to think about what changes they may be able to make to conserve the natural surroundings as well as consider how their lives can be enhanced”.
The project has been part funded by the Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Amenity and Accessibility Fund.
