The Fundación IBERDROLA, the charitable arm of ScottishPower’s parent company, has launched a new round of research grants and scholarships for the 2013/2014 academic year. Online applications are now open and will close on 28 February 2013.

Since starting in 2010, the organisation has invested over £600,000 to help more than 30 students achieve Masters qualifications in energy and environmental related courses.  

The 13 new scholarships will cover full enrolment costs and provide a monthly living allowance of £1,200 for students, who can choose courses in renewable energies, sustainable energy systems, environment and biodiversity, clean coal technologies, emissions management, energy efficiency, energy storage, electric vehicles and smart grids.

Professor Scott MacGregor, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, said: “We are extremely pleased that ScottishPower is continuing to invest in Strathclyde’s talented students, who will become the highly-skilled graduate engineers of tomorrow. 

“The scholarship scheme builds upon the University’s long-established and highly successful relationship with ScottishPower. The University is fully committed to working in partnership with business and industry to develop the next wave of professionals needed by the energy sector, and to deliver the research and technology solutions required to support Scotland and the UK meet their ambitious renewable energy targets.”

Ann Loughrey, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at ScottishPower, said: “The scholarship programme was set up because we are committed to addressing the need for a highly skilled workforce in the energy industry in the immediate and long-term future.  Investing in skills and education now and encouraging emerging talent at the highest level is vitally important in the development of the UK’s future industry leaders.”

One person who successfully managed to secure a scholarship last year, is Kirsty Shearer, who decided to follow a career in energy after a visit to ScottishPower’s Whitelee Windfarm. 

The 25 year old is now studying for a Masters in Renewable Energy Systems and Environment at the University of Strathclyde and hopes it will provide the gateway to an exciting career.

She said: “I want to play my part in shaping the future and I believe the scholarship and support of ScottishPower will help me to achieve this. My goal is to be a Project Manager on a sustainable windfarm and I want to educate and inspire people and take the industry forward.”

In addition to Strathclyde, scholarship places are available at the following universities in the UK: Glasgow, Edinburgh, Liverpool and Imperial College of London.

This year, the programme is being extended to include two colleges in the USA, Maine and Rochester. Application for those wishing to study in America is open until 15 February.

More details on all scholarship and research grant programmes can be found at: www.scottishpower.com/scholarships