Here’s an equation for energy efficiency: ($300 × 3 high schools) + 92 youth = solar success. What’s the result when three high schools compete for the crown of solar glory? Read on to find out!
Rabideau Conservation Academy and Learning Center (CALC) sponsored a solar contest in 2010, in which 92 students from three competing high schools were given the opportunity to construct their own solar air heat panels. The most efficient and effective model would be replicated to heat the greenhouses on the campus of Learning Center.
The rules included the following: all solar air units must include 4’x6’ dimensions, the maximum cost was the allotment of $300, and a check valve must be included in the design to prevent backflow of heated air. The deadline to complete the panels was to be May 14th, 2010.
At the end of the contest, one high school (Cass-Lake Bena) was unable to complete their unit, but their 12 students were still able to participate in the design phase of the project at Rabideau for one week. That left two contenders: Blackduck High School and Bemidji High School.
Blackduck High School constructed a passive solar air and ‘back-pass’ type collector; a “pre-heater type where air within the panel is heated to an elevated temperature that can be funneled into a conditioned space.”
Bemidji High School’s team built a batch type solar collector, where the sun is focused in a compartment that is sealed off from the outside environment. Reflective mirrors increase the insulation surface area and concentrate energy to produce higher temperatures.
Which solar heating system do you think took the gold?
About the Local Government Energy Action Series:
This effort tells the stories of Minnesota municipalities, counties, and schools and the tangible results of their energy-saving efforts to inspire others to take their own actions.
