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Powered by People, a novel exhibition at Stromness Museum, highlights Orkney’s rich and developing renewable energy heritage.
The exhibition delves into the county’s pioneering contribution to clean energy innovation, while also emphasizing the human narratives underlying this.
Addressing an increasing demand for accessible information regarding Orkney’s renewable energy path, both historical and current, Powered by People seeks to involve visitors in dialogues concerning energy equity, innovation, and community influence.
“Individuals frequently feel detached or even disenchanted about renewable energy due to climbing energy expenses,” stated Katy Firth, Stromness Museum’s Climate Change Exhibitions and Outreach Officer: “This exhibition brings the dialogue back to the individuals who have contributed and continue to contribute to making Orkney a remarkable hub for renewables, from small-scale household initiatives to community-level efforts, and pioneering projects that are ‘world firsts.’”
Powered by People showcases a captivating assortment of artifacts, many graciously lent by members of the Orkney Renewable Energy Forum. These encompass rare and historically pivotal items, such as the inaugural subsea cable connecting Burray and South Ronaldsay to the public electricity network in 1954.
A prominent feature is the tale of the late Pete Oswald, whose groundbreaking endeavors resulted in the creation of a synthetic aviation fuel utilizing green hydrogen produced in Orkney. This fuel powered the world’s first-ever flight using synthetic fuel by the RAF, a compelling illustration of how one individual can significantly influence energy innovation.
Powered by People also includes several large-scale items in the Pilot’s House section of the museum. For instance, a Lucas Freelite, a turbine commonly found on farms in Orkney during the early 20th century, was restored with assistance from volunteers at Orkney Men’s Shed. In contrast, it is displayed alongside a modern test version of a tidal turbine blade, visually showcasing a century of renewable energy advancements.
“We’ve collaborated with scientists to incorporate insights from marine research, providing us with fresh perspectives on local natural history,” added Katy. “The renewables sector is aiding us in understanding more about our environment as well.”
Powered by People underscores Stromness’s pivotal role in this narrative. For a town with merely 2,000 inhabitants, its influence is substantial – it hosts the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC), Heriot-Watt’s Orkney campus, and is where the new interconnector cable reaches the shore at Warebeth, with the wave testing site just around the coast at Billia Croo.
Although the exhibition is not a comprehensive history, it represents a significant milestone in acknowledging Orkney’s energy legacy alongside its esteemed archaeology and wartime history.
Powered by People continues until April 2026 and all are welcome to explore, reflect upon, and be inspired by the islands’ extraordinary renewable energy journey.
