Powered by the Sun

With the popularization of many alternative forms of energy, the number of solar-powered gadgets ranging from those cute little gardens lamps to even potentially solar powered cameras is not surprising. What may be unbeknownst to you is that with the help of Kevin Pegg and EA Energy Alternatives Ltd, the Organic Islands Festival has its very own solar power plant. This miniature power plant will produce 6 – 8 kWh over the weekend. That’s enough to power over 7 laptops, a cash machine, several blenders, a cooler, a gelato cart, the main stage and plenty more, all present in the village at the festival.

Solar power is energy that is captured in sunlight and converted into electricity. Specifically, when light energy hits a solar panel composed of different layers of silicon, electrons move between the layers and thus generate an electric current. An archetype of bio-mimicry, solar power is actually one of the most reliable forms of alternative energy. The pathways and angles of the sun, after all, have been constant for millennia. And, recent research shows that Southeastern Ontario alone has the potential to produce nearly 90 gigawatts of electricity from solar power – that’s nearly the equivalent produced from nuclear power in all of the United States! Today, we power the Organic Islands Festival but tomorrow, the possibilities are endless.

To speak to the expert, drop by the EA Energy Alternatives power station at the Organic Islands Festival.

Tags: energy, Local, sustainability