Solar Lab!!!

QuestionHypothesis

Observation/procedure/performData/results/illustrationDrawing Conclusions

ReflectionSummary/Communication

How do solar panel works?

Lab: What Are We Testing?• The optimization of the

solar panels– Intensity– Orientation– Angle

• How can we see how well the panel is working?– Voltage

On To The Lab• Kits:

– 2 alligator clips– 2 tester rods– 1 multi-meter– 1 compass– 1 protractor– 1 solar panel

• Goal: To find intensity, orientation, and angle at which the solar panels work

How Much Solar Power Do We Need?

How much sunshine is needed to power California?

LET’S C

ALCULATE!

STEP 1: How much energy does California use in a single day?

In 2005 – 288,245,000 Kilowatt hours were used in the year

STEP 1 Answer: AVERAGE OF 780,000 KILOWATTS PER DAY

STEP 2:

How much energy does 1 square mile of solar panels produce?

STEP 2: HINTS

a. One Square yard of land receives 5 Kilowatts of energy a day

b. Convert to Square Miles – (1760 yards in a mile, 3097600 square yards in a square mile)

c. Solar Efficiency is 20%, Multiply with 0.2

d. Convert to Megawatts (Divide by1000)

STEP 2: Answer

3098 MEGAW

ATT PER D

AY

STEP 3:How many square miles of solar plants will

produce enough energy for California?

ANSWER: 250 SQUARE MILES

STEP 4:

How much is 250 square miles?

Think about it!

We can use Solar Energy in 1/10 of death valley to provide enough energy for all of California.

Without any harmful products!

Energy Action Checklist!

ConservationThings you can do to conserve energy!

1. Turn off the lights or heating when not in use.2. Turn off entertainment devices when not in use (TV, game systems).3. Unplug your phone charger and other appliances when not in use.4. Use energy saving light bulbs.5. Shut down computer.6. Use “smart” power strips.7. Use natural light, heat and cooling.8. Talk to your parents about energy saving appliances for your home; programming digital thermostats and about making home improvements. (windows, doors)11. Take shorter showers, close the water tap when not in use.12. Avoid a flight or a driving trip when it is not essential.

Efficiency

Things you can do cut down your impact

1. Ride a bike/bus/train instead of driving the car and ride-share2. Replace an old refrigerator and other appliances with energy efficient ones3. Replace a big car with a more efficient model4. Take lunch instead of purchasing takeout5. Insulate the water heater6. Insulate the house with better windows and air seal the house7. Recycle and buy recycled goods8. Choose Organic9. Calculate your footprint10. Market your products online instead of on paper

Questions about anything we have studied this week?

If you want to get involved with One Million Lights, want togive us feedback or have questions, email:

educate@onemillionlights.org

Thank you!!!