2021 Re-Energy Challenge Submission Showcase

Ms. Margett’s students geared up for a fun time this year as they built and raced electric vehicles. Given an example of what their model might look like, the students gained confidence in their skills through problem-solving and constructing a model electric vehicle. When asked about this project, one student said "I learned how not all energy goes to the system and how some goes to our surroundings in the form of heat, friction, sound, etc. I enjoyed this project a lot as I am a very hands-on learner and I find I learn a lot more!" The students not only used recycled file folders for the body of their models but once their final race was complete, they de-constructed their electric vehicles so the parts can be used again in the future.

When a local community organization announced they were selling a fleet of golf carts in poor condition, the students of New Myrnam School saw an opportunity. They acquired the golf carts and with the support and resources of a variety of school and community members, such as the Career Trades Education Centre, they began retrofitting them with photovoltaic (PV) modules, also known as solar panels. Without the need for electrical charging, no greenhouse gases are being emitted through the charging and use of the newly retrofitted golf carts. Likewise, by refurbishing existing carts, this project conserved the energy that would have been needed to recycle or re-manufacture them. Students of all grade levels were involved in learning about clean energy, such as the grade ⅚ class who discovered that a hamster can produce enough usable electricity to charge a cell phone. With almost half of their golf carts retrofitted, New Myrnam School will be busy retrofitting their remaining 6 golf carts throughout the 2021/2022 school year.

Seeking an economic and environmentally friendly way to keep their home pool warm during the summer, the Marceau students designed and built a solar hot water heater. The students placed tubing on a sheet of plywood that they spray painted black and covered using a greenhouse panel. Calculating the energy required to heat the volume of water in their pool, the Marceau students estimate that their solar hot water heater will save upwards of 24.8 kWh of energy and more than 510lbs of CO2 emissions per year. Hoping to inspire others to take on a renewable energy project, they shared their work and learning with their friends, family, homeschool group and scouts community.

Using approximately 80% recycled materials, Ms. Boulton’s students designed, constructed and tested 6 solar ovens. By cooking with their solar ovens, the students estimated that they are saving 0.96 kWh of electricity, 0.79 kg greenhouse gas emissions and $0.07 per day. They presented their projects to their school’s Environmental Awareness Committee and have big plans to incorporate this project into next year’s Environmental Awareness Week and involve even more students, teachers and community members.

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GreenLearning creates free education programs about energy, climate change and green economy that engage and empower students to create positive change.