Alternative Energy Science Projects

Alternative energy science projects are projects that explore non-fossil fuel energy sources. One alternative energy source that is cheap and readily available is solar energy. Solar energy projects for kids are great for supplementing lessons on energy, the sun, biomass processes and environmental issues.

From the feedback that we have received, teachers have successfully used these kits in the classroom.

PicoTurbine Windmill	Solar Power House	SCG-125 Snap Circuits Green Alternative Energy

Some of the alternative energy science projects that you can use for classroom demonstrations or for science fair projects include:

There are two main ways that people can use light energy produced by the sun. The first way is to harness solar thermal energy to heat air or water. In this process a solar panel that is angled towards the sun absorbs, collects and transfers the heat produced by the sun to heat air or water in the panel. The heated air or water can then be forced into a house by a fan to heat the house.

The second way that solar thermal energy can be used is to produce electricity. In order to transform sun energy into electricity a photovoltaic panel, also referred to as a PV panel, needs to be used. Each PV panel acts as a battery that is charged by the sun's energy. The wattage produced by each PV panel is calculated by multiplying its voltage by its amperage. The amount of wattage produced can be increased by linking several PV panels together in a series or in a parallel connection, just like regular batteries.

If you are looking for simple projects for your next series of science experiments, then alternative energy science projects are a great option. Solar panels are the easiest to make and experiment with. All you need to build a solar panel that heats air is a pizza box, some black paint, a thermometer and a clear plastic or glass cover that fits over the box. Start this experiment by assembling your solar panel.

Building a lesson plan around experiments is simple. Start your lesson by introducing the science concepts that will be covered. For example, you will need to cover what energy is, how it is transferred and what work is. Next review the concepts from your lecture with a fun activity like a word search or game. Next introduce the experiment. Let your students know what the experiment is, what steps will be taken and what teh experiment is designed to do. Then set up the experiment and complete it. Finally review what happened and why it happened. Solar energy projects for kids

Alternative energy science projects are great for introducing and exploring current science issues like global warming and the conflict in the Middle East.