As the adverse impacts and rising costs of fossil fuel use become increasingly apparent, residential-scale renewable energy options are more appealing than ever. But how do homeowners determine the strategy that makes the most sense for their specific situation? This course provides an overview of the most efficient and practical systems: passive and active solar, wind, microhydro, geothermal, biofuel, and biomass. Students will learn the principles, methods, and equipment associated with these renewable energy systems. Students will also learn to perform preliminary needs, site, and economic assessments; utilize their local incentives and resources; and determine the strategy that best suits their home site and requirements.
Course start time: Saturday, 9am
Course end time: Sunday, 5pm
- Competency Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Course Objective
The course provides students with an overview of the most efficient and practical renewable energy systems—passive and active solar, wind, microhydro, geothermal, biofuel, and biomass—including the associated principles, methods, and equipment.
Materials to Bring
- Electric and heating bills (past 12 months, if possible)
- Summary of site including solar orientation, prevailing winds, topography, vegetation, etc.
Course Outline
Saturday
9 AM – 10 AM
- Introductions
- Overview of renewable energy
10 AM – 12 PM
- Passive solar design
- Solar hot water systems (active and passive)
- Solar electric systems (photovoltaics)
1 PM – 2 PM
- Tour of Yestermorrow’s photovoltaic and solar hot water systems
2 PM – 4 PM
- Wind
- Microhydro
4 PM – 5 PM
- Introduction to needs, site, and economic assessments
Sunday
9 AM – 10:30 AM
- Geothermal
- Biomass and biofuels
10:30 AM – 12 PM
- Local incentives and resources
- Needs, site, and economic assessments, cont.
1 PM – 5 PM
- Students projects and presentations
- Miscellaneous topics and Q & A
Photo Gallery
Video
Events