University of Bristol
Wellcome Trust
Recommended by:
Society of Biology
PEEP for Physics & Ethics at GCSE
 

The Carbon
Express


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Station: Alternative Energy

Question: How can I use alternative energy in my home?

Background:

  • Alternative energy is normally defined as an energy source, such as wind, flowing water, solar energy and biomass, which create less environmental damage and pollution than fossil fuels, and offer an alternative to non-renewable resources.
  • Energy obtained from sources that are essentially inexhaustible are said to be renewable sources of energy.
  • These could include wood, waste, geothermal, wind, photovoltaic, and solar thermal energy.
  • Nuclear energy can be included in this list of alternative/renewable energy sources. It accounts for about 25% of our electricity (2006).
  • In the UK, the target is to have 10% of our electricity generated from renewable sources by 2010. Between 1990 and 2004, the % increased from 1.8% to 3.6%. (figures from DEFRA – this does not include nuclear energy)

Solar hot water systemYour task:

  • Do a feasibility study for your home for adopting ‘solar heating’ for all of your hot water requirements.
  • Use this study to try and convince your parents to invest in alternative energy production.
     

Some starting points:

Discussion:

  • If you did install an alternative energy source in your home and it will take 10 years to get your money back in saved electricity bills, are you (your parents) prepared to make this long-term investment?
  • How can people be encouraged to adopt alternative energy schemes in their homes.
  • What other alternative energy schemes are available for your home?
  • Some people feel that nuclear energy is the only answer to our energy problem. Do you agree? Some key articles.
     The Times
     BBC News 1
     BBC News 2

You have reached the end of the Carbon line.