Renewable Energy Living Lab: Smart Solar
The color-coded map shows high solar power potential in southern California, such as the location of this field of solar panels in Barstow, CA.Copyright (left) 2012 Renewable Energy Living Lab, Colorado School of Mines; (right) 1996 Sandia National Laboratories via US Dept. of Energy https://www.eeremultimedia.energy.gov/solar/photographs/solar_two_tower_system
Students use real-world data to evaluate whether solar power is a viable energy alternative for several cities in different parts of the U.S. Working in small groups, they examine maps and make calculations using NREL/US DOE data from the online Renewable Energy Living Lab. In this exercise, students analyze cost and availability for solar power, and come to conclusions about whether solar power is a good solution for four different locations.
Many different methods are used to collect energy; some methods are better suited to a particular area than others. Engineers use data to understand the problem and evaluate viable 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, geothermal heat and flowing water. Two important factors in analyzing the feasibility of a renewable energy source are cost and availability, which engineers routinely consider as they evaluate potential solutions.
Scientists and engineers around the world gather data through observation and experimentation and use it to describe and understand how the world works. The Renewable Energy Living Lab gives students a chance to evaluate U.S. renewable energy sources. Using the real-world data in the living lab enables students and teachers to practice analyzing data to solve problems or answer questions, in much the same way that scientists and engineers do every day.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Use the Renewable Energy Living Lab to collect data.
- Describe the factors (cost, availability, others?) limiting renewable energy.
- Perform a basic economic analysis.