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Eco-Schools pupils learn about the power of wind at Bessy Bell Wind Farm

30 Apr 2014
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As part of SSE Airtricity’s partnership with Eco-Schools Northern Ireland, more than 100 pupils from seven local schools visited Bessy Bell Wind Farm in Co. Tyrone on Tuesday 29th April. The pupils got the chance to learn about renewable energy and explore the wind farm on a guided tour.

SSE Airtricity is the principal sponsor of the Eco-Schools programme in Northern Ireland, supporting schools in reducing their environmental impact. Northern Ireland has over 1100 registered schools and is ranked ninth out of 58 participating countries for its Green Flags.

Mr Torney, Eco-Schools co-ordinator at St. Patrick’s Primary School, Newtownstewart commented: “Visiting Bessy Bell Wind Farm has been a fantastic educational experience for all of our pupils. From learning about the power of wind through the engineers’ turbine talks, to understanding more about future career opportunities in the renewables industry, our Eco-Committee have learned a number of valuable lessons today.”

Bronagh Gormley, SSE Airtricity Community Development Officer, said: “As the main sponsor of the Eco-Schools programme, SSE Airtricity is passionate about the role schools can play in promoting sustainability. We are committed to Northern Ireland’s greener future and we were delighted that so many pupils had the opportunity to visit our Bessy Bell Wind Farm and learn about the power of renewable energy.”

SSE is currently planning to repower and extend the Bessy Bell Wind Farm, increasing its capacity to 41.2MW, which will be enough to power 35,000 homes in the region. This project will boost the local economy through increased investment and job creation. SSE recently hosted an Information Day for those living close to the wind farm.

For more information about Eco-Schools Northern Ireland visit www.eco-schoolsni.org, and to learn more about SSE’s repowering and extension project at Bessy Bell go to www.sse.com/bessybell