Woodbridge Tide Mill has installed a micro-generator inside the Mill to demonstrate electricity generation from hydropower. The purpose is to educate and provide activities around STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) themes for the many KS1, and KS2-3 students who visit the Mill.
The micro-generator takes its energy from the Crown Wheel Lay Shaft in the Mill. It is coupled to outputs such as phone chargers, a light bulb and a voltmeter so visitors can see the electricity generated. Key Stage 1,2, and 3 students will have accompanying materials to explain the process, the importance of sustainable energy sources and hands-on activities are planned such as simple circuit building.
John Carrington, the Chair of the Woodbridge Tide Mill Charitable Trust, explains that “the Trustees of Woodbridge Tide Mill have declared a Climate Emergency and stand alongside Woodbridge Town Council and East Suffolk District Council in their ambitions to help build awareness of the importance of adopting sustainable energy sources. This project has been part funded by the Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Amenity and Accessibility Fund to whom the Trustees are most grateful.”
“We hope this project will show visitors sustainable ways that energy can be generated and reconsider existing behaviours to think about what changes they may be able to make to conserve the natural surroundings as well as consider how their lives can be enhanced.”
For winter opening hours of the Mill, please check the Woodbridge Tide Mill website.