Article by Ivy Elrod
Back in July ALCSE, along with the student chapter of Association of Energy Engineers (AEE), modified a UAH campus golf cart to make it solar-powered! This was a fun afternoon that helped raise awareness of sustainable energy, and promote the new student chapter of AEE. This was the official kick-off event for this new student chapter and they hope that it will be the first of many events to come.
The Solar Golf Carts
Students submitted a proposal with UAH’s Green Fund to install solar panels on golf carts at the university. In order to receive funding from the Green Fund, the project must meet one of two requirements, it must educate the UAH community about sustainability or make the campus more environmentally friendly. The AEE student chapter, working with ALCSE, was able to accomplish both.
This installation promotes awareness of the feasibility of solar power to offset grid energy consumption, and our solar-powered golf cart is sustainable and renewable. It’s low maintenance, quiet, and produces zero emissions, making it a very environmentally friendly option!
Following the kick-off event AEE held a Week of Welcome event, and joined ALCSE and Foundations for Tomorrow for the Tiny Home Build at Sci-Quest.
What is AEE?
AEE is the Association of Energy Engineers. However, it is not limited to just engineers! We are looking for all students interested in any energy fields, regardless of major, to join. AEE has professionals in energy engineering, energy management, renewables, energy services, sustainability, and many other fields.
How you can get involved?
You can find AEE on Facebook at www.facebook.com/uahAEE or contact Ivy Elrod (im0008@uah.edu) for more information. The student chapter is currently looking for teams for the Switchblade Competition. This competition encourages students to create their own version of wind turbine blades that generate the most power at lower-level wind speeds, similar to those found in Alabama.
Upcoming events
In addition to the Switchblade competition, throughout the year, AEE will have local businesses, entrepreneurs, and professors speak to students about the work they are doing in our community. AEE will also host other events aimed to promote awareness, garner support, and encourage others to consider careers in the energy sector. If you are a UAH student the student chapter of AEE would love to have you join them!
