(Grade To show an example of this conversion, let's say a student finds that a location has a potential for 400 W/m2 of wind power. Using the numerical data from worksheet questions 1 and 2, have students calculate the amount of solar and wind energy the school could possibly generate in one year, assuming the following conditions: Your school roof has a surface area of approximately 4,300 square meters; 50% of that space is useable space. Partial Design Process These resources engage students in some of the steps in the engineering design process, To solve this problem, we'll use real-world data hosted on a website called "a living lab. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Institute RASEI (pronounced RAY-see) is a joint institute between the University of Colorado Boulder (CU-Boulder) and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) addressing important, complex problems in energy that require a … Point out the legend under the Legend tab. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) is the U.S. Department of Energy's primary national laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency research and development. Energy Experts Engage: After students complete the ENGAGE section on the Energy Experts Worksheet, a written brainstorming opportunity, have them share with a partner so all voices are heard in the room. Thanks for your feedback! Plan Time. MS-ETS1-1. Renewable Energy Living Lab: Energy Experts. After the worksheet is completed, come together as a class to present solutions and discuss. Thanks for your feedback! Materials vary by activity. (Grades Energy Experts Elaborate and Evaluate: After students complete the ELABORATE questions on the worksheet, have them share their answers with the class. 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. 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. NREL delivers impactful scientific discoveries, innovations and insights that transform clean energy technologies, systems and markets. Go to this website: and watch the video found on that page. Which option will generate the most energy for the investment? but do not have them complete the full process. How much is there/how much power potential? What is renewable energy? Bioenergy, Wind Energy, Solar, Energy Basics, Water. Each wind turbine has an area of approximately 1,000 m, Your units should be in kilowatt hours/year. 6 - DUE 0532684. Free K-12 standards-aligned STEM curriculum for educators everywhere. 2.) The CPO was established to accelerate NREL's leadership in securing renewable energy technologies and distributed energy systems. Thanks for your feedback! Thanks for your feedback! 6 - Review their answers to gauge their understanding of the data. 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. 6 - (Grade fossil fuel: A type of fuel formed by the decay and decomposition process of dead organisms buried in the Earth for millions of years. Scientists and engineers around the world gather data through observation and experimentation and use it to describe and understand how the world works. (Grades 6 - 8). Conclude by having students share their recommendations in small groups or with the class. We need electrical energy to power our industries, to move from place to place, to grow and cook our food, and to warm or cool our homes. (Grades This curriculum was created with the support of National Science Foundation grant no. There are systematic processes for evaluating solutions with respect to how well they meet the criteria and constraints of a problem. Students can just round and estimate if numbers fall in between (i.e., do not have to interpolate to get the density). Use of the TeachEngineering digital library and this website constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Dams are often used to create hydropower that can be converted to electricity. Lead a class discussion to have students compare results. Renewable Energy Online encourages people to become scientifically informed to overcome the challenges associated with harnessing different types of renewable energy. Copyright © (left) Idaho National Laboratory, (right) The White House https://inlportal.inl.gov/portal/server.pt?open=514&objID=1269&mode=2&featurestory=DA_531113 http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/04/22/resilient-and-sustainable-economies-gulf-coast, Middle School (Grades 6 - 8). The more than 100 researchers in our program: Reduce the cost, Improve the resilience and reliability, and; Decrease the regulatory burden of renewable energy. Read employee reviews and ratings on Glassdoor to decide if National Renewable Energy Lab is right for you. (Grades wind turbine: A device similar to a windmill that moves with the wind to convert the kinetic energy created by the wind to mechanical energy. Is the resource available in the area where we need it? Renewable Energy Lab Experiments Directions: Click on the"Experiment Title" link to the lab that you wish to preview. within type by subtype, then by grade, etc. Which renewable energy source would produce best at your school? This is the question that we will investigate today. Students become familiar with the online Renewable Energy Living Lab interface and access its real-world solar energy data to evaluate the potential for solar generation in various U.S. locations. Review the five energy icons, and discuss why each is appropriate for its energy type. The alternative energy education at Texas Tech University has a very precise focus. From where does renewable energy come? Define a design problem that can be solved through the development of an object, tool, process or system and includes multiple criteria and constraints, including scientific knowledge that may limit possible solutions. For upper grades, have students access the NREL Renewable Energy Atlas to explore interactive maps. A former solar energy experiment site has become KIT Energy Lab 2.0, a testing ground for renewable energy. While examining the solar energy map, have students note how the colors indicate various levels of energy efficiency. biomass: Biological (organic) material from living or dead organisms (especially plants) used as an energy source. MS-ETS1-2. Use the Renewable Energy Living Lab to collect data on various energy forms. Note the "How It Works" hot link.copyrightCopyright © 2012 Renewable Energy Living Lab, Colorado School of Mines. others may emphasize the testing and analysis phases. Point out the legend under the Legend tab. Visit the "How It Works" link to explore the engineering involved. Sites must have a high potential for generating electrical energy from a renewable source. As students compare solar and wind power potentials for their school location, they may be confused when they realize the units provided for solar and wind power are not the same. Naval Research Laboratory October 22, 2019 S/he must multiply by the hours in a day and by the days in a year: 400 W/m2 x 24 hours/day x 365 days/year = 3500000 Wh/m2/year = 3500 kW/m2/yearTable 1-1 Classes of wind power density. Renewable energy resources are currently a hot topic in science and engineering as society looks for ways to produce affordable power without permanently damaging our environment. In addition, targeted for ages 15 and up, the academic content of Renewable Energy Online has been developed for thorough comprehension and understanding to achieve effective learning online. After this activity, students should be able to: Each TeachEngineering lesson or activity is correlated to one or more K-12 science, This, along with their worksheet answers, reveals their level of comprehension, Teacher resources: http://www.teachengineering.org/livinglabs/renewable_energy/educators.php. However, you must work within some constraints, as in real life. Hand out the worksheets as a guide for the activity. 6), Use ratio reasoning to convert measurement units; manipulate and transform units appropriately when multiplying or dividing quantities. Point out hot links at the bottom of the legend box for additional resources about each energy type. 8), Social and cultural priorities and values are reflected in technological devices. Do you agree with this alignment? As an introduction to renewable energy, review the descriptive paragraphs about each energy source the page. Do you agree with this alignment? To solve this problem, we'll use real-world data hosted on a website called "a living lab.". 6 - Then watch the hydroelectric power video: (or click on the link provided). Define a design problem that can be solved through the development of an object, tool, process or system and includes multiple criteria and constraints, including scientific knowledge that may limit possible solutions. This means that the DOE will help our school pay for a renewable energy system. 9 - Students analyze real-world data for five types of renewable energy, as found on the online Renewable Energy Living Lab. Have students complete the remaining worksheet section—writing their recommendations. After this activity, students should be able to: Each TeachEngineering lesson or activity is correlated to one or more K-12 science, For example, to utilize energy from water, engineers must design and build dams along with electric generators and transmission lines. Working in small groups, they examine maps and make calculations using NREL/US DOE data from the online Renewable Energy Living Lab. This activity is designed around the Renewable Energy Living Lab, a resource of current and real-world scientific data, in this case a culmination of available renewable energy data from across the U.S. His research laboratory explores the formulation, combustion, and emission characteristics of alternative fuels (including biofuels). We will look at data acquired and presented by the Department of Energy National Laboratories. ", Pair students to work together. Thanks for your feedback! The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has issued a new National Lab Policy (NLP) to improve the quality and reliability of renewable energy projects in India. Curriculum. Alignment agreement: The official grand opening for the Alternative Energy Lab took place in February 2019, and complete details are available in the media release. DOE’s Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States, and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. (Grades Part of an engineer's job involves determining what technologies are best suited for any given area and conditions. Although no charge or fee is required for using TeachEngineering curricular materials in your classroom, the lessons and activities often require material supplies. 6 - Explain the difference between renewable, nonrenewable, and inexhaustible resources. They also learn about our nation's electric power grid and what it means for a residential home to be "off the grid.". In the ASN, standards are hierarchically structured: first by source; e.g., by state; within source by type; e.g., science or mathematics; (Be detailed. (Grades As students navigate the website, walk around to observe their data. Direct students to study the maps to find areas with high potential to develop solar, geothermal, wind, hydro and biomass energy. (Be detailed. (Grades As part of the EVALUATE portion of the worksheet, pair up partner groups to make groups of four students each. technology, engineering or math (STEM) educational standards. Wind or solar? Today we will explore five types of renewable energy resources and determine where in the U.S. are the best locations to convert these resources into electrical energy. The virtual laboratory is interactive, flexible and cost effective. (Grades 8), Decisions to develop and use technologies often put environmental and economic concerns in direct competition with one another. Lesson, Copyright © 2012 Renewable Energy Living Lab, Colorado School of Mines, Copyright © 2016 Renewable Energy Living Lab, Colorado School of Mines. Examples: Petroleum, natural gas, coal. Sandia National Laboratories has advanced research in renewable energy since the 1970s. Use the icons in the lower left corner to read more information about each form of energy. Then lead a class discussion to review possible answers and ideas for the prompts. The more precisely a design task's criteria and constraints can be defined, the more likely it is that the designed solution will be successful. Go to http://www.teachengineering.org/livinglabs/renewable_energy/ and click to enter the Renewable Energy Living Lab. That's right, renewable energy comes from natural resources such as wind, plant material (wood), water (rivers, tides, dams), geothermal (underground) and sunlight—and is naturally replenished. His research focuses on control and optimization in power systems with high levels of renewable energy. Additional background information is provided in the living lab interface including source information used to compile the data. Explanation for the renewable energy source selection, based on data. It wants to ensure that renewable energy can be transferred into the world’s aging power grids more seamlessly and effectively. 5), The management of waste produced by technological systems is an important societal issue. For lower grades, do the calculations as a class, rather than individually. Direct students to discuss their ideas with their partners. Inform students that in order to complete the assignment, they will use the Renewable Energy Living Lab to determine where potential sites are. Fluently add, subtract, multiply, and divide multi-digit decimals using the standard algorithm for each operation. Evaluate competing design solutions based on jointly developed and agreed-upon design criteria. Engineers use both renewable and non-renewable energy sources to generate electricity, power vehicles, and make buildings functional. First, go to the following website and watch the wind power video. The expendable cost is the estimated cost of supplies needed for each group of students involved in the activity. Students learn and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of renewable and non-renewable energy sources. Thanks for your feedback! Thanks for your feedback! Many people assume that renewable or "green" energy sources are always the best solution. Partial Design Process These resources engage students in some of the steps in the engineering design process, 9 - Engineers use data to understand the problem and evaluate viable solutions. Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem. Alternately, have students present their solutions to the entire class and then complete the analysis questions. Point out hot links at the bottom of the legend box for additional resources about each energy type. Additional background information is provided in the living lab interface including source information used to compile the data. Building a wind turbine in an area with little wind would not be the best choice. Describe the amount of wind energy received by your school. (Grades Use maps to analyze the potential for generating various types of renewable energy. [Last Name] 1 Alternative Energy Lab 1.) How much power potential? (Grades 6 - 8). A basic understanding of map reading and ability to navigate the internet. Provide students with background for the activity: Today you will explore five forms of renewable energy and determine where in the U.S. are the best locations to use this energy. This mechanical energy can be converted to electrical energy as well. Alternative energy sources are defined as: Alternative energy sources are sometimes classified as inexhaustible or renewable. Have students summarize the results and conclusions of their analyses as recommendations (last worksheet section). High School technology, engineering or math (STEM) educational standards. Use the icons in the lower left corner to read more information about each form of energy. Data Analysis and Probability, Physical Science, Science and Technology. SERI was a federal facility dedicated to harnessing power from the sun and quickly caught national attention. Thanks for your feedback! Any reusable equipment that is necessary to teach the activity is not included in this estimate; see the Materials List/Supplies for details. Describe the difference between wind turbines and solar panels. After examining maps and analyzing data from the online Renewable Energy Living Lab, they write recommendations as to the optimal form of renewable energy the school should pursue. within type by subtype, then by grade, etc. To consider whether a renewable energy source is feasible, scientists and engineers ask a variety of questions, such as: We will learn more about renewable energy potential sources using the online Renewable Energy Living Lab during the next couple of class periods. Working in small groups, they examine maps and make calculations using NREL/US DOE data from the online Renewable Energy Living Lab. (Grades The National Renewable Energy Laboratory is a national laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, operated by the Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC. Include both relative descriptions [that is, low, medium, high] and numerical data [that is, 5.0 kWh/m. 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. It is rare that students have access to query such as extensive body of scientific data to support their own inquiry-based questions. We will look at real-world data acquired from the Department of Energy National Laboratories. 8), Design is a creative planning process that leads to useful products and systems. 6 - Define the criteria and constraints of a design problem with sufficient precision to ensure a successful solution, taking into account relevant scientific principles and potential impacts on people and the natural environment that may limit possible solutions. Worksheet: As students explore the website, have them complete the data table and questions on the worksheet. Using the map, have students answer the data analysis worksheet questions: Describe the amount of solar energy that is received by your school. NREL began operating July 5, 1977, as the Solar Energy Research Institute (SERI). 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. It provides a structured learning platform, where students will gradually achieve knowledge and skills while designing renewable energy systems and finding solutions to authentic energy-related problems. Check their answers to gauge their level of understanding. Time Required: 1 hours 30 minutes Activity, High School 8), Energy can be grouped into major forms: thermal, radiant, electrical, mechanical, chemical, nuclear, and others. MS-ETS1-1. As an introduction to renewable energy, review the descriptive paragraphs about each energy source on the page. Do you agree with this alignment? The webpage provides a description of the experiment with correlations to state and national science standards. Do you agree with this alignment? in Mechanical Engineering from Johns Hopkins University. The Renewable Energy Living Lab gives students a chance to evaluate U.S. renewable energy sources. Recommendation for where to locate the option. Examples: Sunlight (solar energy), water (hydropower), geothermal, biomass. 8), Throughout history, new technologies have resulted from the demands, values, and interests of individuals, businesses, industries, and societies. Activity, High School Enforcement Letter, Alliance for Sustainable Energy, LLC. 6 - Learn more about the unique, industrial energy lab. 9 - Currently, most electrical energy is generated by burning fossil fuels, which has significant negative impact on our environment. Engineers use data to understand problems and evaluate potential solutions. Renewable Energy Living Lab: Smart Solar. Any reusable equipment that is necessary to teach the activity is not included in this estimate; see the Materials List/Supplies for details. Give each group an. 6), The design process is a purposeful method of planning practical solutions to problems. (Listen to student ideas.) Include both relative descriptions [that is class type] and numerical data [that is, 5.0 m/s]). Examples: Forest and wild plant growth (trees, branches, stumps), industrial wastes (such as from lumber and paper mills), urban waste (park trimmings, yard clippings, municipal solid waste, animal matter, sewage, food scraps), agricultural residues and fuel crops (corn, sugarcane, bamboo, hemp, wheat, straw, rice husks, grasses, algae, seaweed, animal fats, vegetable oils), etc. Provide each pair of partners with an opportunity to present their solutions to another group. 6 - Energy Experts, Explore and Explain: While students access data and evaluate maps, verify understanding through questioning and monitoring of student work. Biomass used for electricity generation varies widely by region. a project of D2L (www.achievementstandards.org). (Grades For upper grades, have students explore the other resources as well as utilize different reference data. Sites should be within a reasonable driving distance, 200 miles, of an international airport. Divide the class into groups of two students each. The collection is organized into three main “lessons”—each with its own set of brief and engaging videos and assessment questions that cover key areas of energy … Alternative Energy Researchers transmit energy with laser in ‘historic’ power-beaming demonstration By Emanuel Cavallaro, Corporate Communications, U.S. fossil fuel: A type of fuel formed by the decay and decomposition process of dead organisms buried in the Earth for millions of years. Berkeley Lab is a multiprogram national laboratory, managed by the University of California for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science. All 100,000+ K-12 STEM standards covered in TeachEngineering are collected, maintained and packaged by the Achievement Standards Network (ASN),