Sparks fly as minister and students talk energy

THERE were plenty of sparks flying yesterday when Energy Minister Pat Rabbitte picked the brains of students who have their own ideas about tackling climate change and promoting energy efficiency.

The minister, had been invited to Dublin Castle to present finalists in the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland’s (SEAI) search for One Good Idea with their prizes but surprised organisers by spending a lot more time quizzing the students.

Almost 1,000 students from 82 secondary schools had entered the competition and Mr Rabbitte spent the best part of an hour examining the work of the 20 projects showcased at the national final and talking to the students involved.