Alternative Energy Projects for the science fair
So it was science fair time for my oldest son and my first thought was that this was a perfect time to introduce him to Alternative Energy Projects. So we hit the internet looking for ideas. So after looking for a while I came across Earth4Energy (click here for homepage). I ordered the product ,downloaded and started right away.
First thing I was amazed at what we could create ourselves at home. I like you have seen the extremely high prices associated with solar panels and I have been put off by them, but here was all this information on how to build my own. It was straight forward and layed out so that my 11 year old could follow. We were soon on our way to building our 9.6v solar powered radio controlled car. My son operated the soldering iron and was excited to see the voltage grow each step of the way with a digital multimeter.
The part that interested me is there is no limit to your scale. We could build a small panel to power this rc car or we could build large enough to power home appliances. click for more information
In a short amount of time we were zooming the rc across the yard with no need for a recharge and he was amazed. Soon more question started being asked and he is well on his way deciding on one of his next alternative energy projects. So I encourage all of the mothers and fathers out there to get your children started in Alternative Energy Projects and you yourself may learn something in the process.
Earth4Energy was a great resource for our project and I recommend you check them out
Renewable energy, the other guys
Well lets dive right in. Everyone has read about alternative energy projects like solar, wind, bio-fuels. There are however, other methods. One of these methods is wood gasification. Basically it means burning wood in a low oxygen environment. By doing so the flammable gases are released and moved by tubing to an internal combustion engine.
This is an old technology used many times throughout history in times of war and fuel shortages. From farm equipment to daily drivers and everything in between Europeans were a big user of this technology. A quick search on Google you can find plans, pictures and videos to get you started. Plans of all sizes are available and many can be made from household material.
Gasification is just one of the many lesser known alternatives and I encourage you to research further for others because you may find a real diamond out there
Alternative Energy Projects, The Basics
With the world economy in turmoil many regular people, including myself, have seen their checking accounts suffer. Alternative energy projects such as Ev car conversion, bio fuels, solar and wind power are usually a first step. What many people find is that these projects seem overwhelming at first but you soon find many are in reach.
The amount of free information available on the Internet is great and many projects can be made from items available at home or at local stores. What is important is that you find a simple project that captures your interest to complete first. You will soon find yourself motivated for more. When this happens you will be ahead of 99% of the population.
So in conclusion i recommend everyone take on their own alternative energy projects no matter how small and take your own small step to energy independence.
