A building designed with solar panels. Solar energy is usually a negative for building designers. It generates extra heat that must be eliminated by air-conditioning. However, this perspective is changing as architects and buyers begin to see solar radiation as a free energy source. Students in this lesson will learn how building design can accommodate solar panels to take advantage of passive energy.

Subject: 
Renewable Energy
Grade Level Range: 
Middle School (6-8)
High School (9-12)