The Renewable Energy Roadshow!

This project seeks to deliver an extensive programme of hands-on activities, interactive exhibits and discussion and dialogue events about the science and technology behind renewable energy. This will be delivered to secondary schools and community festivals throughout Scotland using our purpose-built mobile trailer, the 'Powerpod'. The 'Powerpod' (which was funded by a Sustainable Action Fund grant from the Scottish Executive) was built by students from the School of Engineering at Heriot-Watt University and is fitted with solar panels, photo-voltaics and a wind generator. These sources of green energy can be used to demonstrate applications ranging from the charging of mobile phones and i-pods to making milkshakes. The activities in the 'Powerpod' will be complemented by a range of hands-on workshops exploring topics such as energy storage, fuel and solar cells, wind turbines; and the workshops will also explore the research and research process required to develop these resources. Delivered by two part-time science communicators/scientists using readily accessible language, these activities will provide both information and an opportunity to engage with scientists and science communicators familiar with the science and technology and issues surrounding climate change. In addition we will provide support materials mounted on a web-page, for participants and teachers, which will enhance lessons on related topics and provide activities for after-school clubs.