Durham Energy Institute Inspires the Next Generation at the Durham Schools’ Science Festival

Led by Lynn Gibson, Katie Daniels, and Kate Webb from the DEI team, and supported by students Simeng Wang, Yi Jen Kang, Marina Hernandez, and Capri Mancini, the sessions introduced pupils to one of the most important global challenges of our time, how to move from fossil fuels to clean, sustainable energy in a fair and inclusive way.

The workshops began with a simple question, “What did you use energy for this morning?” From switched-on phones to school buses, students quickly learned how deeply energy use shapes daily life, and how much of it still relies on coal, oil, and gas.

The team guided pupils through how energy is currently produced, the links between global energy security and events such as the invasion of Ukraine, and the vulnerabilities of depending on imported fuels. Students were also encouraged to think critically about a just energy transition, ensuring communities and workers are not left behind as society moves towards renewables.

A highlight of the session was the “Dream Green School” activity, where students worked in groups with a fictional £2 million budget to design a low-carbon school. They debated the merits of solar panels, wind turbines, air source heat pumps, minewater heating systems, and battery storage, weighing up cost, reliability, emissions, and long-term benefits.

Several students impressed the DEI presenters with ambitious plans that combined local minewater heating with renewable generation to power their schools entirely from clean energy.

Reflecting on the week, Lynn Gibson said, “The creativity and curiosity from the students was fantastic. They grasped complex ideas like energy security, carbon reduction, and fairness with real enthusiasm, exactly what we hope to inspire for the next generation of energy thinkers.”

The presentations closed with encouragement for students to consider future careers in energy, not only engineering but also economics, law, policy, and communication, reminding them that transforming the energy system will take talent from every discipline.

Students who want to explore further can find out more about DEI’s public events, work experience, and resources at dei.admin@durham.ac.uk.

The Durham Schools’ Science Festival brings together students, teachers, and researchers to celebrate STEM learning through hands-on exploration and discovery. Find out more at Durham Schools’ Science Festival - Durham University.