Students from the Electrical Engineering and Sustainable Energy Engineering programmes at South East Technological University (SETU) recently embarked on an inspiring study visit to Copenhagen, Denmark, and Lund, Sweden.
The trip gave students the chance to explore some of the most innovative energy and infrastructure projects in Europe.
Waste-to-energy plant visit
The first site visit involved a trip to Denmark’s largest waste-to-energy plant. Students observed how Copenhagen’s waste is sorted and incinerated in a vast furnace, generating hot water and electricity to supply homes and industry across the city.
Plant staff member Axel delivered an engaging and informative tour of the plant, which included seeing the 40-metre-high flames inside the furnace.
Sustainability focused
Next stop on the trip was a visit to the HOFOR Energy and Water Showroom. At HOFOR, students learned about Copenhagen’s ambitious sustainability strategy, which has significantly reduced the city’s carbon footprint and positioned it as a global leader in the transition towards carbon neutrality. Andreas and Freja, staff members at HOFOR, gave an insightful and interactive presentation to SETU’s Engineering students.
Crossing the border to Sweden
The final day of the trip included a train journey across the iconic Øresund Bridge to Sweden. On arrival in Lund, Sweden, the group visited a hyperscale data centre project currently under delivery by the Sisk team.
Thanks to John, Carl, Paul, Brian, Colm, Padraig, and the Sisk team, our students were informed through an excellent presentation outlining the project’s progress to its current commissioning stage.
Sightseeing
On returning to Copenhagen, the group visited CopenHill, the city’s renowned waste-to-energy facility, which uniquely features a ski slope and café on its roof.
The trip concluded with some sightseeing - a water taxi tour of Copenhagen’s landmarks, including The Little Mermaid, Amalienborg Palace, and Nyhavn.
Value of international experience
This trip would not be possible without the generous sponsorship from the following companies. The first evening began with dinner at the Proud Mary, which was generously sponsored by Weltec Engineering. On the second night, students were treated to dinner hosted at the Hard Rock Cafe Copenhagen, which was generously sponsored by Pat Corcoran of FPK Engineering Solutions. The final day’s lunch was kindly sponsored by CIBSE.
International study trips provide invaluable educational and cultural experiences for students. SETU is deeply appreciative of the generous support from our sponsors, whose contributions help make these opportunities accessible. Special thanks also to lecturers Colm, Dave, Mervin, and Stephen for organising and leading such a successful trip.
