ANNIE Finnegan and Sarah Jomish, second year students at St. Jarlath’s College, Tuam were the winners of the EirGrid Cleaner Climate Award. They are pictured with EirGrid engineers James Reynolds and Jack O’Connor during the SciFest Regional Competitions in ATU Galway.

Secondary school students from Tuam secure climate award

Published: Fri 15 May 2026, 9:30 AM

STUDENTS from St. Jarlath’s College, Tuam have been awarded the prestigious EirGrid Cleaner Climate Award.

Second year students Annie Finnegan and Sarah Jomish impressed judges during the SciFest@College 2026 regional competition, which was held in ATU Galway. Their project, ‘Tote-ally not plastic’, highlighted how alternative materials such as agar-agar, gelatin and glycerin can be used to make tote bags to reduce plastic waste.

EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland’s electricity system, presents the Cleaner Climate Award, and are a long-standing SciFest partner. The award recognises the vital role that young people play in building a more sustainable future. It honours a project that demonstrates both technical excellence and a meaningful contribution to energy and environmental sustainability.

“For 20 years SciFest has been a driving force in sparking curiosity and innovation among second level students, and we are incredibly proud to continue supporting this important initiative,” stated Orlaith Diamond, Head of Sustainability at EirGrid.

“As we continue to work towards the Government target of ensuring 80 percent of Ireland’s electricity comes from renewable sources, we recognise that nurturing the next generation of problem solvers and innovators is essential to building a clean, resilient energy system.

“EirGrid is at the forefront of delivering Ireland’s climate ambitions, and the enthusiasm shown by the students at ATU Galway today reflects a growing passion for environmental and renewable energy solutions. Congratulations to Annie and Sarah on their awards.”

SciFest@College is a nationwide series of STEM fairs for second-level students, held across 16 regional colleges in Ireland. It allows students to showcase their creativity and talents in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.