Students across the region compete for a chance to advance to the World KidWind Challenge!
Over 100 students showcase wind turbines they built at Regional KidWind Challenge
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — On Friday, Feb. 27, SMUD, in partnership with KidWind, presents the Regional KidWind Challenge.
The Regional KidWind Challenge is a hands-on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) design competition where student teams have the opportunity to build and test a small wind turbine.
At this regional competition, students will present their fully assembled wind turbines and compete against more than 100 middle school students from across the region. The prize — the chance to advance to the world competition in Wisconsin to compete alongside students from around the globe.
This wind turbine competition teaches students about renewable energy and clean energy careers, highlighting how wind power supports SMUD’s 2030 Zero Carbon Plan.
Here’s a video capturing the excitement of December’s KidWind Jr. Challenge.
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WHAT: |
SMUD Hosts Regional KidWind Challenge |
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WHEN: |
Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. (Media availability from 10 a.m. to noon) |
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WHERE: |
Sacramento State University, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, CA Riverside Hall (Parking available at CSUS Lots 2, 3 and 7) |
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WHO: |
Over a hundred middle school students gather to compete in SMUD’s wind turbine regionals, SMUD Board Vice President Rob Kerth and Board Member Gregg Fishman, and SMUD staff |
About SMUD
As the nation’s sixth-largest, community-owned, not-for-profit electric service provider, SMUD has been providing low-cost, reliable electricity to Sacramento County for more than 75 years. SMUD is a recognized industry leader for its innovative energy efficiency programs, renewable power technologies and for its sustainable solutions for a healthier environment. In 2024, SMUD’s power supply was about 62% carbon free, which is largely influenced by the weather and amount of hydroelectricity produced. SMUD’s goal is to completely eliminate carbon in its electricity production by 2030 while maintaining reliability and keeping rates among the lowest in California — on average, 50% lower than its neighboring, investor-owned utility. For more information on SMUD’s 2030 Zero Carbon Plan and its customer programs, visit smud.org.