Wind power rules at Camden High

District Reporter Camden
Friday 23/2/2007 Page: 5

Camden High's commitment and enthusiasm about protecting the environment and adopting a sustainable energy, has seen a wind generator developed and installed at the school - the first of its type anywhere in the world.

The NSW Department of Education and Training's Director- General, Andrew Cappie-Wood today officially opened the new wind generator at the school this week. Mr Cappie-Wood said the wind generator, the first of its type anywhere in the world, would be used by students to gain a better understanding of sustainable energy.

"The NSW Department of Education and Training is committed to providing students with opportunities to understand environmental issues affecting our planet, including green house gases, recycling and pollution," he said. "Camden High School students and teachers are passionate about improving their understanding of sustainable energy in all its forms including solar and wind.

"This wind generator is just one of several sustainable energy projects at the school which is one of the most environmentally conscious in the state." Mr Cappie-Wood said the wind generator, which is 23 metres tall, is located 300 metres west of school buildings, and developed and installed by local company, Dynamic Systems Australia.

"Camden High School students worked closely with Dynamic Systems Australia throughout the research and development process collecting data from their fully computerised weather station," he said. "While improving the students' knowledge of environmental issues, the wind generator is also environmentally friendly.

"Specially designed blades mean the generator turns at speeds unlikely to injure local wildlife. "It has also been specially modified to ensure the turbine is almost silent to limit noise pollution. "The ability to raise or lower the generator means there is little visual impact on the local skyline as well." The director-general acknowledged the support of the Dynamic Systems Australia for working so closely with the students, who he said are "better global citizens".

Year 10 student Kristy McGregor, gave a very impressive speech which began with a grim weather forecast for the future - of temperatures soaring to 48 degrees, relentless bush fires, 56 years of drought, severe level 25 water restrictions, UV levels so high that venturing outdoors between 9am and 5pm would be a health hazard and an ice-free Arctic. The speech made the older generation present take note and understand that the issue of climate change among the younger students is a very real and a serious threat and they are addressing it through many different environmental initiatives at the school.

These projects includes: collection and storage of water; passive means to cool school buildings; using solar energy to reduce the cost of electricity; a well established tree planting and propagation program; and recycling programs.

"There is only one negative outcome of the turbine - and that is when there is a blackout we'll have to stay at school, because it will keep the power on - whereas before we were sent home," Kristy said. "Camden High interest in renewable energy and being green may inspire students to do many great things... This is the beginning of understanding global warming, and us all deciding to take an active role in creating out future."