Solar power articles for students

Can students use solar energy to power their classroom?

Last week we shared the story of Aaron’s class -- a group of fourth grade students in Durham, North Carolina, who are using solar energy to power their classroom. The students set this ambitious goal after studying energy sources and electricity in class.

How can I learn more about solar energy?

Visit our solar basics page for a comprehensive overview. Put what you’ve learned about solar energy into practice by launching your own project. To experience firsthand the abundant power of the sun, try making a solar oven. These simple devices use the energy of direct sunlight to cook food and heat water.

What is solar energy used for?

Solar energy is light, heat, and other forms of energy given off by the Sun. Solar energy can be collected and used to heat buildings and to make electricity. Most solar heating systems capture solar energy with a device called a flat-plate collector. The collector is a large plate of black metal covered with a sheet of glass.

What are the benefits of using solar energy?

Some PV power plants have large arrays that cover many acres to produce electricity for thousands of homes. Using solar energy has two main benefits: Solar energy systems do not produce air pollutants or carbon dioxide. Solar energy systems on buildings have minimal effects on the environment. Solar energy also has some limitations:

Can 4th graders use solar energy to power their classroom?

Take inspiration from these fourth graders and launch your own solar energy project using our Solar Classroom Lesson Plan resources. Last week we shared the story of Aaron’s class -- a group of fourth grade students in Durham, North Carolina, who are using solar energy to power their classroom.

How does solar energy affect the environment?

Using solar energy can have a positive, indirect effect on the environment when solar energy replaces or reduces the use of other energy sources that have larger effects on the environment. Some toxic materials and chemicals are used to make the photovoltaic (PV) cells that convert sunlight into electricity.