The future of energy for consumers and businesses will be explored through a number of futuristic and interactive exhibits at the ESB Powering Potential Expo, which takes place in Dublin this Wednesday.

The two-day innovation, energy and technology expo, which is on in a dome in Merrion Square constructed for the event, will showcase how the ESB along with its partners is developing smarter homes and businesses, electric transport and a smarter energy network. ESB will be showcasing some of the newest developments in renewable energy and energy management systems for the home, while the new BMW i8 ecar will also be on display.

Renowned futurist Sohail Inayatullah is the keynote speaker at the event and will discuss the future of world energy, emerging smart technologies and smart cities.

Paul Mulvaney, executive director at ESB Innovation, will discuss how the ESB is leading the charge for the future of energy consumption in Ireland.

On the subject of the future, a group of secondary school students are leaving the classroom to embark on a week-long business bootcamp this week. The 17 students won their places through the Student Enterprise Awards programme.

A patented hurling boot, a magnetic board for make-up and a stain prevention treatment are among the enterprises at the Student Enterprise Awards business bootcamp at University College Cork.

Stephen Walshe, chair of the enterprise education committee with the local enterprise offices, said the focus of the bootcamp was on entrepreneurial skill development.

“The aim of the student enterprise awards is to foster a more enterprising culture in our schools and classrooms,” he said.