Renewable Energy Living Lab: Energy Experts
A wind turbine along the Colorado front range.Copyright 2012 NREL
Students use real-world data to evaluate various renewable energy sources and the feasibility of implementing these sources. Working in small groups, students use data from the Renewable Energy Living Lab to describe and understand the way the world works. The data is obtained through observation and experimentation. Using the living lab gives students and teachers the opportunity to practice analyzing data to solve problems or answer questions, in much the same way that scientists and engineers do every day.
Engineers use data to understand problems and evaluate potential solutions. When designing systems to produce or transmit sustainable energy, or power, engineers look at opportunities to harness renewable resources such as wind, sunlight, biofuels (plant materials), geothermal heat and flowing water (dams, currents, tides), which are naturally replenished.
Engineers use both renewable and non-renewable energy sources to generate electricity, power vehicles, and make buildings functional. Renewable sources of energy vary widely in their cost-effectiveness and in their availability. Although water, wind and other renewables may seem free, the cost comes in collecting the energy, transporting it to the where it is needed, and storing it for later use. For example, to utilize energy from water, engineers must design and build dams along with electric generators and transmission lines. The Renewable Energy Living Lab gives students a chance to access the same data that is used by scientists and engineers to evaluate U.S. renewable energy sources.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Identify five types of renewable energy.
- Use the Renewable Energy Living Lab to collect data on various energy forms.
- Analyze data to make recommendations for where renewable energy projects are best located.
- Identify the factors contributing to renewable energy feasibility.