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The Iowa department of
Transportation (DOT) began using solar-powered equipment along Iowa’s
roadways in 1997. The DOT uses more than 100 solar-powered message
signs, traffic recorders, weigh-in-motion detectors, and Road Weather
Information Systems. |
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The Indian Creek Nature
Center in Cedar Rapids uses a 960 W photovoltaic system to supply
power to its Sugar House Building (used to make maple syrup). The
solar system is mounted on the building's roof and is connected to
the local utility grid. Ten percent of the Sugar House's power
needs are met during the workweek. During the weekend, the excess
electricity is sent back to the grid. |
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Iowa State’s team
PrISUm builds solar cars to race in national solar car events. Their
mission is to educate the public and increase interest in solar energy. |
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Researchers at the Microelectronics
Research Center (MRC) at Iowa State University is currently conducting
research on the reliability of thin-film photovoltaics and how they
could be used in Iowa. NASA has used some of the research done by
the MRC in its space programs. |
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A Boone, Iowa, company
uses thin film technology to produce tents for the U.S. Army. The
tents collect heat during the day for warmth at night and the film
is flexible enough to be folded and easily transported. |
