TSN Master Class 5: Future Energy

EcoTech Centre, Swaffham, Norfolk. 23.03.99

This Master Class was, as always, a whole day session aimed at bringing teams of science teachers up to date in science: in this case the science and technology of energy provision in the future. Speakers at this master class were:

• Prof. Fred Vine, a geologist and geophysicist and former Dean of the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of East Anglia. He spoke about renewable and non-renewable energy use on a finite earth, and the theoretical limits of future energy demand from ultimate resources.

• Prof. Kevin Lomas, Deputy Director of the Institute of Energy and Sustainable Development at De Montfort University. The Institute is engaged in the efficient use of energy in buildings design, the practical application of state-of-the-art building simulations, the need for sustainable development programmes, and in developing ways in which greater use can be made of renewable energy in domestic dwellings and in transport.

• Rodney Chadburn, Energy Consultant, reviewed the practical implications and the economic dimensions surrounding the technology of energy supplies for the future.

Teachers spent the afternoon Calculating Energy Yield of Thetford Forest [Iain Lake, UEA]; Previewing the displays of EcoTech Interactive; touring the building looking at EcoTech Building Design [Paul Lucas, Architect], and visiting the Biomass Energy System. Pictured is the interior of EcoTech.