TVET
TEACHING ENERGY WE HEAD TO THE VUWANI SCIENCE CENTRE TO SEE THEIR CURRENT PROJECTS. By: Mukosi Fulu
T
he primary objective of a science centre is to communicate science to its surrounding towns and villages. In South Africa, there are several centres in each province. They feature different projects and fun exhibitions that help visitors enjoy the simplicity and applications of science. Today, the world is focused on finding ways to reduce climate change. There is more funding being put towards studies and research on this topic. This is because society understands the importance of finding efficient, accessible and viable solutions and alternatives to the problem of climate change. Studies have argued that switching to clean renewable sources of energy will reduce this effect. Dr NE Maluta from the University of Venda is the manager of the Vuwani Science Centre that is an entity of the university. His extensive work on renewable energy has brought about the projects at the centre that serve the community for educational and research purposes. What renewable energy projects can be found at the centre Dr Maluta was happy to talk about four projects hosted at the centre that monitor the environment and use renewable energy. These projects have been great tools to communicate to the community – including learners, teachers and the centre visitors – about climate change, renewable energy and opportunities in the field. The projects are: a PV plant (5kW) which produces electricity; PV technology comparison station; Mini Weather Station (SAURAN); Eddy Flux Covariance measurement tower. Project 1: The PV plant Ever heard of a Photovoltaic (PV) cell? It's just a fancy (or rather, scientific) name for a solar cell. A PV plant uses solar energy to generate electricity. The PV system uses cells to convert solar energy directly into electricity. A single photovoltaic cell typically only generates about two watts, however, an array of solar panels connected can generate hundreds or even thousands of kilowatts of electric power. Consequently, the 5kW PV plant at Vuwani Science Centre (made up of six solar panels) generates enough electricity to support the centre. Projetc 2: PV technology comparison station To find the most efficient of technologies, comparison is necessary. If electricity generation through PV is to replace
16
Science Stars Energy Issue | www.sciencestars.co.za
