Home Solar Array Persuasive Letters

After studying the physics behind power and energy, students combined their knowledge of how power is converted into energy with some research of their own to determine the solar capacities of their own homes. By considering the usable surface area, tilt, and the azimuth of their roofs, students were able to use the online tool PVWatts to estimate how much solar energy their roofs could provide each month. Students compared these values to real household energy bills provided by their families to determine how much money could be saved monthly should the panels be installed. Finally, students calculated the installation and upkeep cost of their theoretical array, and composed a letter to their families using their findings to make a recommendation about whether or not to install solar panels.

Click on each student’s roof to read their letter and learn more about their solar array! Be sure to leave any comments or questions.