Student Energy has been a beacon of innovation in the global energy landscape since its inception in 2009. First founded in Calgary, now headquartered in Vancouver, the youth-led organization has engaged over 50,000 young people globally, empowering the next generation of leaders to spearhead sustainable energy initiatives. Through education, mentorship, and hands-on projects, Student Energy is crafting a future where young people lead the charge towards a net-zero world, aligning closely with the ambitions and needs of the Prairie energy sector and economy.
The Guided Projects program, a cornerstone of Student Energy’s mission, exemplifies this drive. It equips young innovators with the tools and real-world experience necessary to implement clean energy solutions. Focusing on practical, community-based projects, particularly in solar energy, Guided Projects is shaping the energy professionals of tomorrow.
PrairiesCan’s support of Student Energy, especially through the Guided Projects program, has generated positive results. In 2022, a federal investment of $500,000 was directed to kickstart this initiative, demonstrating a shared commitment to fostering clean energy innovations. This funding has been instrumental in realizing projects that serve not only as educational platforms, but also as functional clean energy solutions within communities.
A prime example of the program’s success is the Shames Mountain Ski Hill project in Terrace, BC, where a 3 kW solar array and battery bank were installed. This project has significantly reduced reliance on diesel fuel at the ski hill, saving over one thousand litres of diesel fuel per year and cutting CO2 emissions significantly, all while providing a sustainable energy source for the venue.
Through PrairiesCan’s funding, Student Energy’s Guided Projects have become a transformative force in the clean energy sector, supporting young people across Canada to spearhead impactful projects. This support will not only accelerate the adoption of renewable energy on the Prairies but will also strengthen the region’s position in the global shift towards sustainable energy solutions. The partnership between Student Energy and PrairiesCan is a testament to the power of investing in youth and innovation, setting a precedent for a brighter, cleaner future in the Prairies and beyond.
