The POWER project took part in Madrid es Ciencia 2026, held at La Nave, as part of the Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC) stand, with a clear objective: to bring the challenges of the energy transition and the risks of disinformation closer to pre-university students through engaging, interactive experiences.
Throughout the event, POWER designed and implemented a series of playful, hands-on activities aimed at fostering critical awareness among young audiences. Students were invited to explore key concepts related to renewable energy, sustainability, and the social implications of the energy transition in an accessible and dynamic way.
A central component of the experience was the use of interactive games on tablets, where participants navigated scenarios involving energy choices, identifying misleading information and understanding how narratives around renewables can be shaped or distorted. These activities encouraged active decision-making and reflection, helping students recognize the importance of critical thinking in digital environments.
In parallel, the project introduced students to immersive virtual reality environments, where they could experience simulated contexts related to energy production and communication. Using VR headsets, participants engaged with narrative-driven scenarios that illustrated how disinformation can influence public perception of clean energy technologies. This immersive approach not only increased engagement but also enabled a deeper cognitive and emotional connection with the topic.
By combining gamification, immersive technologies, and science communication, POWER successfully translated complex issues—such as disinformation in the context of renewable energy—into meaningful learning experiences for younger generations. The initiative highlights the importance of early education in media literacy and sustainability, particularly in a socio-technological landscape where misinformation can directly impact the acceptance of essential innovations.
The participation in Madrid es Ciencia 2026 reinforces POWER’s commitment to bridging research and society, empowering future citizens to navigate the energy transition with informed, critical perspective
