Rutland Herald: Kids harness the sun to power tiny cars

Solar Rollers

by Bryanna Allen | February 20,2015

The little cars zipped around the floor, their drivers clearly in a race to the finish line.

They are powered not by the latest and greatest engines, but by a combination of small hands and even smaller solar panels.

SunCommon hosted an afternoon of building mini solar cars Thursday as a way to educate kids about alternative energy while offering them a fun activity during school vacation.

Steve Peters, community solar organizer, helped the kids put their cars together.

“We thought this was a good chance to invite kids to learn a little more about solar energy,” he said.

And to get the kids to learn, he said, the best way is to show them by demonstration, because they can actually see solar power at work.

“We want to start to teach kids early about alternative energy and solar,” said Peters, who entered into partnership with the Vermont Energy Education Program for the afternoon program.

“If we want to see changes into the future, then we need to teach the younger generation,” he said. “That is where we will continue to see changes.”

Aaron Boynton, principal of Rutland Town School, brought his son and daughter to build a car.

“I thought it was a good opportunity over school break to get a little hands-on science into their day,” he said, as his kids raced their cars against each other.

“They are having fun, and it’s getting them to build something and gain awareness about conservation,” he said.

Addison Boynton, 7, played with his car as his sister tagged along.

“This thing right here is a solar panel,” he said, holding up the small black disc. “It catches the sun and makes the car move.”

Although Addison could not explain how the sun’s energy is converted into usable power, he knew the basics.

“It’s electricity,” he said. “Just like any other electricity. It makes the car go.”

Tegan Boynton, 5, said she liked the thought of the sunshine powering the car.

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