Renewable Energy Education Program

THE PROJECT - EnerGreen participated in the development and application of a renewable energy education kit. Although not a tangible, operating energy project, the foundation recognizes the importance of education in furthering the development of energy. The project is timely in light of increased awareness on atmospheric pollution, especially from greenhouse gases. The kit is a highly effective educational resource based on renewables that unifies and applies the many discrete principles taught in science courses, and weaves them into a learning experience that is timely, memorable, and consistent with the needs of the next generation.

This project will produce a technology and science based educational package that gives students hands-on experience with renewable energy technologies. The kit would be similar to the Pembina Institute's Climate Change and Awareness Action kit, and feature a binder containing a selection of classroom-ready learning activities, student and teacher background readings, full-colour overhead transparencies, and other resources. Topics will include passive and active solar, small and large scale wind, tidal, small hydro, photovoltaic, biomass conversion, economics of alternative energy, and related career opportunities. The web site will be a vital component of this kit, and feature not only plans and activities, but interactive, animated fact sheets, communication tools for users, and other valuable communication and education tools and features.

A significant effort was focused on developing teacher awareness of the educational opportunity and support resources available. This was achieved through a series of teacher workshops delivered through existing teacher professional development programs and conferences. Electronic and print promotions to existing networks of educators was also be used to promote distribution of the kit.

The McConnell Family Foundation has set up a program called "Green Street" which enables all schools across Canada to access a selection of environmental education programs. The Renewable Energy Kit was one of the national programs selected by McConnell. As such, the kit will be advertised through CBC TV's "Street Cents" program for youth and via the Street Cents and Green Street web sites.

The kit was distributed to the schools in the fall 2001 school session. EnerGreen was a co-funder of this valuable educational tool.

The kit can be accessed through the website www.re-energy.ca