The team from Coriolis Energy, a renewables developer, have been encouraging pupils at Ysgol Godre’r Berwyn in Bala to take part in an engineering challenge as they finalise their plans for Foel Fach Wind Farm north of the town.
As part of the pre‑application consultation before the scheme is submitted into planning, three public events were held in Cwmtirmynach, Bala and Sarnau, where around 150 people attended.
If approved, the 72 MW,10 turbine project could generate enough clean electricity to power over 68,700 average households every year.
A core part of the community engagement involved visiting Ysgol Godre’r Berwyn, where pupils took part in interactive sessions exploring renewable energy, its benefits, and its potential for the local area and the challenges to consider when proposing a wind farm.
Ysgol Godre’r Berwyn serves a community close to the proposed wind farm site, and during Coriolis’ visit, the children took part in a series of fun and interactive activities designed to spark curiosity about renewable energy.
More than 60 pupils engaged with hands‑on activities designed to demonstrate the engineering principles behind how wind turbines operate. Working in teams of ‘engineers’, and using recycled cardboard and other materials, they built both small and large working turbine models.
Young people from Years 6 to 10 also attended the consultation event at Canolfan Henblas, Bala, where they explored educational materials, completed an activity workbook, and spoke with the project team.
Pupils gathered around the 3D model of the wind farm to spot their homes on the map. This allowed them to visualise how the project would appear from where they lived, their school, and key viewpoints in the town.
Louise Housecroft, Project Manager for Coriolis Energy, said:
“Engaging with young people in the area is vital, not only to help them understand the possibilities of green energy, but also to ensure they have a voice in shaping the project.
“We welcome all perspectives, ideas and feedback as we work to maximise the benefits of this scheme.”
“Learners from Ysgol Godre’r Berwyn asked us some great questions, were enthusiastic in their feedback about the project, and interested in future career prospects in the energy sector.”
Mantell Gwynedd, which will administer the Community Benefit Fund associated with the project, also attended the events to speak with pupils about how they would like future funding to be used. Their ideas ranged from new shops and sports facilities to a bike pump track and sweet shop.
Throughout the engagement, pupils had the opportunity to voice their opinion about the scheme, expand their understanding and to ask questions about renewable energy and beyond.
The pre-application consultation for Foel Fach Wind Farm runs until Monday 9th February, with further information, including opportunities to provide feedback, online at www.foelfach.cymru
