ESB expands weather watch initiative to 16 Cork schools

ESB Networks has announced the expansion of its weather watch schools programme with 16 Cork schools among those taking part.

The initiative is aimed at junior cycle and transition year geography students to explore the link between weather patterns and renewable energy generation.

Each school receives a free in-class weather station that allows students track real-time weather conditions, and learn how these affect electricity generation and consumption, as well as access to educational materials.

Students are then encouraged to take their learnings home to influence energy habits, supporting ESB Networks’ Is This a Good Time? campaign for smarter electricity use.

An evaluation from last year demonstrated that 73% of students who took part improved their energy use awareness, with understanding of the link between weather and renewable generation rising by 50% amongst students.

Lindsay Sharpe, customer and strategy manager at ESB Networks, said they are pleased to see the enthusiasm from students and teachers in classrooms across the country.

“Research from participating students and teachers show that students are not only increasing their understanding of the link between energy use and renewable generation, but they are actively engaging on it and starting powerful conversations about energy use in their wider everyday life with family and peers.”

Along with 16 schools in Cork, counties including Kerry, Cavan, and Donegal also have seen expanded participation in the ESB Networks weather watch schools programme for 2026.

Some of the schools taking part in Cork include Coláiste Muire Crosshaven, Douglas Community School, St. Mary’s High School Midleton, and Millstreet Community School.

For more information on the ESB Networks weather watch schools programme visit esbnetworksweatherwatch.ie