Use the relationship between solar energy and time to determine if it's feasible to use a solar PV system to heat a garden shed.
After reviewing a short scenario, students use the relationship between solar energy and time and the minimum energy required to determine if it is feasible for a solar photovoltaic (PV) system to heat a garden shed. Your class will use algebraic formulas and a system of quadratic and linear equations to help inform their decisions.
Throughout the activity consider how well students:
Solar energy is an affordable alternative energy that can be used to help heat and power your home, school, or business. However, there are some important considerations around the use of both solar photovoltaic and solar thermal systems in British Columbia that you should be aware of. Check out bchydro.com for more information regarding the practicality of solar energy in our province.
Optimization informs the decision-making process in situations involving extreme values.