A unique event that offers young women in Years 9 and 10 an insight into the exciting opportunities a career in clean energy can provide has kicked off in Hobart.

Girls in Power offers hands-on experiences for future skills, and is the first of two such events being organised with the support of the Tasmanian Government under the Supporting Women to Succeed Grants Program.

In a state that has enormous potential for growth in renewables, Hydro Tasmania has long recognised the need to nurture its future workforce, especially women who are under-represented in energy.

Hydro Tasmania Executive General Manager People Culture and Engagement, Ruth Groom, said the Girls in Power program will focus on what a renewable energy career can be by connecting girls with inspiring women in the sector.

“It's important to us to be able to connect with these girls about future opportunities in renewable energy industries even if they might not be sure about what they want to do with their careers,” Ruth said.  “The program will help girls better understand STEM by seeing real life examples of how science, technology, engineering and maths have been used in renewable industries around Tasmania, and to see themselves reflected in women guest speakers such as Bess Clark, CEO of Marinus Link.

“The two days will be packed with activities and will include a visit to underground tunnels, a wind farm, a hydro power station and an electricity sub-station among other exciting activities.

“We’re so happy to work with our partners on this amazing program to give this opportunity to 30 young women in southern Tasmania and help energise their future careers.”

Over two action-packed days, participants will receive an introduction to the circular economy, engage in a hands-on challenge of building a hydropower system, and head to MONA to for a session on geotechnical engineering.

The girls will also head to into Tasmania’s highlands to visit Cattle Hill Wind Farm and Hydro Tasmania’s power stations at Waddamana, then to Meadowbank in the Derwent Valley.

Girls in Power is proudly backed by Hydro Tasmania, Entura, TasNetworks, the Tasmanian Government, Goldwind, and ACEN Australia.

Ends.

Released for Hydro Tasmania by Duncan Abey / 0409 722 359/ media@hydro.com.au