An Introduction to Making Solar Energy Work

During this short presentation, participants will learn about photovoltaic (PV) panels and how to use them. The basic math and physics that's necessary to understand the different specifications of solar panels will be explained. Additionally, we will discuss how a solar panel can work effectively with a battery to store energy for when it's needed. This activity can be adapted for use in the classroom.

Chris Murray obtained his Ph.D. in Physics in 2007 (University of Guelph) and has worked at Lakehead University since 2010. He currently teaches Physics to students in the Lakehead/Georgian partnership programs in APLS and Electrical Engineering, who attend the Barrie campus. He is the faculty coordinator for Lakehead Orillia's Let's Talk Science site, which ran more than 140 separate science sessions for thousands of elementary and secondary school students in the 2020/2021 school year.