Mount Rainier High School, Des Moines
Water Power
We aim to measure how much energy can be generated from different currents of water. We want to try and test new designs of water turbines for generating hydroelectric power. The aim for this project is to evaluate the benefits and possibility of looking at wave power as a long term resource for renewable energy.
Floating Solar Panels vs. Global Energy Balance
We will be testing solar panels’ effects on global energy balance. We will be doing this by measuring air and water temperature with and without solar panels. This information will allow us to see if solar panels could be a viable replacement for sea ice loss while at the same time providing a source of renewable energy.
Wind Power
We are aiming to develop a method for generating energy from windmills. We are trying to see what benefit renewable energy can have for countries that do not currently use this form of energy. We aim to evaluate the cost/benefit ratio of this form of renewable energy. We want to evaluate whether or not investing in Third World countries’ ability to use wind power makes sense and is a good source for combating global warming.
Wind-Powered Electric Cars
We are aiming to redesign an electric car so that it is able to take advantage of the concepts of wind power to help recharge its batteries. Our design will involve looking at using wind power while the car is in motion to further power the car and generate excess electricity that will be stored. This will allow for the car to not need to draw energy from fossil fuels thus increasing that car’s benefit to the environment.
Floating City
We will be designing a fully self-sufficient floating city. This city will be carbon neutral by being 100 percent self-sufficient. In order to accomplish this, the city will be powered by electricity coming from solar panels, constant speed drives, and wind power. We will also have plants to grow under the city to provide oxygen and food for the city.
“You are setting the pace — the dynamic — for a better and brighter future.”
—Elson S. Floyd, Ph.D.
President, Washington State University