Renewable Energy Exploration introduces students to the clean energy sources that power a sustainable future. Through simple, hands-on experiments, students learn how solar, wind, and hydroelectric energy work—and why they’re crucial alternatives to fossil fuels. These activities help students visualize energy systems while encouraging innovation, environmental stewardship, and critical thinking.

How to Conduct Renewable Energy Explorations

Introduce the types

Start with an overview of three key renewable energy sources:

• Solar – Energy from sunlight

• Wind – Energy from moving air

• Hydro – Energy from moving water

Explain how each works, where it’s used, and why it’s important for a clean energy future.

Pick a Project (or rotate through all 3)

Choose a hands-on model that matches one of the energy types:

• Solar Oven – Check out this video for how to make one
  

  • Pizza box

  • Aluminum foil

  • Plastic wrap

  • Black paper

• Mini Wind Turbine or Pinwheel – Check out this video for how to make one

  • Paper

  • Straws

  • String

  • Plastic bottle

  • Paperclips
  • Marbles, rocks, or sand

• Water Wheel – Check out this video for how to make one. (you can just watch until the 3:30 mark if you just want the water wheel. Then, just poor water onto the spoons).

  • Chop stick

  • Plastic spoons and plastic water bottle lids

  • Hot Glue

  • Bucket or bowl

Build and Test

Provide students with basic materials to build working models. Let them test, troubleshoot, and improve their designs. This is a great way to integrate engineering and iteration into your lesson.

Reflect and Connect

Wrap up by discussing how renewable energy shows up in real life—solar panels on homes, wind farms, or hydroelectric dams. Ask students how switching to renewables can reduce pollution, save money, and help the planet.

Extend the Lesson

STEM Journal Reflections

Have students reflect on which energy source they found most interesting or practical—and why.

Field Connection

Invite a local energy expert or take a virtual field trip to a wind or solar farm.

Did You Know?

💡 In 2023, renewables provided nearly 25% of electricity in the U.S. Solar and wind are now among the cheapest sources of new power in the world!

 

Join the Movement to Save Energy

Renewable Energy Explorations are a fun, interactive way to integrate STEM, sustainability, and place-based learning into your classroom. By participating, students gain a sense of ownership over their energy future and learn how real-world science can drive real-world change.

Want to go even further? Join a Renew Our Schools competition today!