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Here
are a few topic areas currently being discussed and researched:
September
Fitness Challenge
Solar Water Heated Pool Initiative Why not use solar hot water panels to heat the Evansville Community Swimming Pool? Using solar collector panels, radiant solar energy can be used to directly heat water flowing though pipes connected to such panels. By using such an abundant and unlimited resource to heat the pool, large amounts of costly fuel and toxic emissions, currently created using the necessary and inefficient boiler system, could be avoided.
Biodiesel Initiative Biodiesel is a cleaner and intelligent alternative to petroleum-based diesel fuels which are widely used today. Biodiesel is created by chemically separating the glycerin and methyl esther (biodiesel) compounds that make up oils and fats. Soybeans are an plentiful source for such oils, which in turn exemplifies the exceptional opportunities biodiesel production poses for rural areas with soybean crops across the Midwest. Biofuel is a better option, because of it's versatility and effects. 100% biofuel (B100) can be used any diesel engine without any major modifications. B100 does encounter some setbacks in cold weather because of it tends to gel, but engine modifications can be made to account for such issues. Blends of biodiesel below 35% (B35-B20) do not require any temperature conditions, and offer an effective and less polluting option for diesel fuel.
Wind Power Initiative Wind has been providing energy to humans for centuries. From the earliest sails on a boat, to wind mills pumping water and milling grain. As for modern wind power, impressive and efficient wind turbines have quickly become a proven alternative energy standard. Wind turbines simply catch the blowing wind, and send it through a generator to create electricity. With no harmful emissions or pollutants, wind turbines are a staple in the future of alternative energy in the United States. Wisconsin has become a supporter of many alternative energies, including wind. The Montfort Wind Farm in nearby Iowa County has become an outstanding example of how wind power can be implemented. The two Byron wind turbines in Fond du Lac County are operated by WE Energies as a flagship for renewable energy in the southeastern Wisconsin area. Presently, the Evansville Initiative is investigating wind power options in the area. As the rural Evansville area is an optimal area for wind power projects because of its vast fields and exceptional wind resource, wind power may be a very practical opportunity for interested individuals or farmers. Community Wind is a growing option in America. Through Community Wind projects, individuals are able to support and invest in wind power together. Both Moorhead, Minnesota and also Mackinaw City, Michigan have successfully implemented Community Wind power ideas in their area. With successful implementations across the country, Community Wind has proven itself worthwhile and effective. To learn more about the progress of our Wind Power Initiative check back to this website soon! If you are interested how to support wind power or get involved yourself, make sure you check out the Resources section, and also feel free to contact the Evansville Initiative.
Educational Facilities Initiative General goals: 1. To become a model for multiple options in distributed energy generation, introducing these options to K-12 students, voc-tech students, adult learners, and interested citizen. 2. To use geothermal heating and cooling to reduce fuel bills, provide a lower maintenance system, and serve as a demonstration site for students, other public facilities, and interested citizens. 3. To combine energy generation with the best in conservation measures such as cool day lighting, low-watt lighting, water-saving fixtures, etc. in one facility. 4. To demonstrate "green" energy approaches in both new facility design and remodeled and/or retrofitted buildings. 5. To contribute to energy independence efforts, working to attain 5% generation from non-grid sources. Specific goals and objectives: 1. Curricular
2. Fiscal
2. Civic and Public Policy
To observe the outcome of all of these educational facility goals, please visit the website of the Evansville Community School District. Our schools boast several installations of alternative energies, including photovoltaic solar panels, a wind turbine, and even a new high school equipped with energy-efficient geothermal heating and cooling system.
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