Today, May 18, the Riddle Elementary 3rd graders visited New Holland and Ag Technologies to learn about the purposes of solar energy. Jim and Mike Straeter explained that photons of energy come from the sun and solar panels turn them into money. The kids learned that the Farm Service Agency’s solar panels work in coordination with Duke Energy’s power lines to make for a net zero electric bill. They also learned how an “off-grid” system uses battery storage to keep lights on when power lines aren’t available (i.e. in the mountains). A comparison between wind and solar energy was made and they decided the economics of solar is much better. We are glad to see that these kids get that a future of clean renewable energy is a great thing for everybody!
