Oakland Community College is taking what it knows about solar and wind power, putting it in a mobile trailer and taking it onto campus and into the community so that students and the public can learn about renewable energy.
The 10-foot-by-20-foot Mobile Renewable Energy Center has a working solar cell system that converts solar energy to DC and AC electricity that can run household appliances and power tools. There also is a working solar water heater and space center. The wind energy generator is also on board as are educational displays of information on renewable energy and energy conservation.
“The function of our center is to show students, the general public and businesses interested in green technology how we can use renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power to reduce bills, enjoy cleaner air and grow a green economy while increasing energy efficiency,” says Debra Rowe, OCC professor of sustainable energies and behavioral science. Rowe is also president of the U.S. Partnership for Education for Sustainable Development, and an advisor to the Higher Education Association’s Sustainability Consortium.
The mobile alternative energy lab is located at the Auburn Hills campus and will be used as a teaching tool for OCC's sustainability program. It will go off off campus to county school districts and other public places upon request.
Source: Debra Rowe, professor of sustainability energies and behavioral sciences at Oakland Community College
Writer: Kim North Shine
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