Renewable Energy: Solar

The sun provides earth with abundant light energy, and we can convert this solar energy into electricity using solar panels. This unit explores solar energy as a renewable energy source. Through engaging activities, students investigate the principles of light energy and design, build and test solar-powered ovens, water heaters, and a mini-city.

We are facing many issues with conventional energy sources (fossil fuels, hydropower, nuclear) that are leading engineers to develop innovative alternative renewable energy sources (wind, solar, biomass) to manage the impacts of energy production on the natural environment. Engineers are instrumental in developing low-cost and reliable methods for creating carbon-free, clean energy sources, especially solar power. Continued advances in solar panel designs are making them more affordable, energy-efficient, and able to be integrated into our built environment in innovative ways.