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Bute Energy bursaries to support master’s students

13 May 2025

Two master’s students at the School of Geography and Planning will receive bursary support, thanks to a generous gift from Bute Energy.

The bursaries have been awarded to Ella Davies and Cerys Williams, students on the Spatial Planning and Development (MSc) programme.

The bursaries will help students complete a year of study, supporting future planners as they develop expertise in sustainable energy, environmental policy, and urban planning.

Bute Energy, a leading developer of onshore renewable energy projects in Wales, is committed to supporting students who want to make a difference in sustainable planning and environmental change. These bursaries will provide vital financial support, allowing students to focus on their studies and research without additional financial pressure.

Ella Davies said: “I'm excited and grateful to have been selected, and I'm eager to keep working and make the most of this incredible support.

“While this will definitely help ease the financial side of my studies, the encouragement and guidance it can offer academically will be invaluable. Diolch yn fawr am y cyfle anhygoel!”

Nia Williams said: “The support from Bute Energy will enable me to further develop my skills and knowledge in planning, especially with a focus on renewable energy solutions and community engagement in the planning system - both being areas I'm passionate about.

“I'm extremely grateful for this opportunity and look forward to applying what I learn in the course to make a positive, meaningful impact on communities and the environment.”

Professor Gill Bristow, Head of the School of Geography and Planning, said: “We are delighted at the news of these bursaries from Bute Energy and are very grateful to the company for their support. These bursaries will help ensure we can equip the next generation of planners with the skills and knowledge needed to shape a more sustainable future.”

The bursaries reflect the School’s strong connections with industry and policymakers, ensuring students benefit from real-world insights and opportunities. Through collaborations like this, students can engage with the latest developments in sustainable energy and planning, gaining knowledge that directly applies to their future careers.

Biba Chuta, Social Mobility Partner for Bute Energy, said: "This initiative tackles the urgent challenge of resourcing the planning system in Wales to speed up planning applications and renewable energy projects. With 55% of council planning staff reporting capacity issues, sponsoring future planners through education is a key solution.
"This collaboration piece with Cardiff University is part of our Net Zero Skills Strategy, which aims to create diverse pathways into the renewable energy industry. We're proud to be supporting these talented and passionate students and wish them pob lwc in their studies."
Applications for next year's bursaries are now open.

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