On Wednesday, May 28, students in Questar III’s Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration (HVAC/R) program in Troy were challenged to create and monitor mini wind turbines powered by solar energy.
The project was part of the nearly $200,000 “Improving Bridges for Clean Energy Training from High School to College and Career” grant awarded to Questar III, in collaboration with MESO, Inc, Morrisville State College, SUNY ESF and KidWind Project, from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).
Through this grant, Questar III, Tech Valley High School and the collaborators are developing project-based curricula integrating virtual and hands-on exercises in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and advanced technology.
Students used virtual computer-based programs as well as hands-on model wind turbines and solar panels to build and test a model city and electrical grid.
“Many people turn on a light switch without thinking of the multiple decisions made by others to keep the power flowing through the electrical grid,” said Glenn Van Knowe, vice president and senior research scientist of MESO, Inc. “By using newly developed computer activities, coupled with hands-on activities, students get a more complete picture of how the grid works.”
Raymond Pitcher of KidWind Project added, “The process of building the city and grid engages the students’ interest and allows them to gain a better grasp of the concepts. It is an important step in leading the student into much needed careers in energy efficiency and management.”
Beginning in the 2014-2015 school year, the grant will give students the opportunity to earn college credit through SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry and Morrisville State College. They will also work on-site with various energy partners including NYSIO and National Grid.
